What does Keith mean and where does it come from?
Traditionally a male name of Scottish origin, Keith has become increasingly used as a female name as well in modern times. The name traces its roots to a Gaelic name 'Ceiteach,' referring to a wooded area. It is also associated with many notable people, including Keith Urban, the Australian country
Cultural significance
Keith has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of scottish gaelic.
Peak popularity
Reached #1296 in 1968 — currently #713 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Keith?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Keith?
Keith works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Keith Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Keith Rose
Floral · soft ending
Keith Mae
Sweet · timeless
Keith Claire
French influence · crisp
Keith Jane
Literary · strong
Keith Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Keith right now?
Declining — down 20 spots — currently #713 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #713 | 373 | ▼ down 20 · -2% births |
| 2022 | #693 | 382 | ▼ down 97 · -18% births |
| 2021 | #596 | 468 | ▲ up 9302 · +5100% births |
| 2000 | #9898 | 9 | ▲ up 3575 · +80% births |
| 1995 | #13473 | 5 | ▼ down 9228 · -78% births |
| 1990 | #4245 | 23 | ▼ down 1987 · -49% births |
| 1985 | #2258 | 45 | ▲ up 140 · +13% births |
| 1980 | #2398 | 40 | ▼ down 29 · +18% births |
| 1975 | #2369 | 34 | ▼ down 747 · -41% births |
| 1970 | #1622 | 58 | ▲ up 101 · +35% births |
| 1965 | #1723 | 43 | ▼ down 43 · -4% births |
| 1960 | #1680 | 45 | ▲ up 208 · +41% births |
| 1955 | #1888 | 32 | ▲ up 309 · +60% births |
| 1950 | #2197 | 20 | ▲ up 1531 · +186% births |
| 1945 | #3728 | 7 | — |
The story of Keith
Keith has been a beloved American name for over 124 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1900. More than 438,227 babies have been named Keith since 1900. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2028 in 1900 to #713 in 2023. Keith is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Names that peaked alongside Keith in 1968:
Keith by decade
Keith peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 12 | |
| 1890s | 86 | |
| 1900s | 289 | |
| 1910s | 3,455 | |
| 1920s | 11,031 | |
| 1930s | 13,960 | |
| 1940s | 25,991 | |
| 1950s | 91,508 | |
| 1960s ★ | 113,135 | |
| 1970s | 77,199 | |
| 1980s | 53,043 | |
| 1990s | 28,463 | |
| 2000s | 12,542 | |
| 2010s | 7,057 | |
| 2020s | 456 | |
What are good nicknames for Keith?
What names sound and feel like Keith?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Keith also consider these
How is Keith written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Keith
What does the name Keith mean?
Keith means "Scottish Gaelic" — a name rooted in English tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Keith?
Keith is currently ranked #713 as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Keith?
Keith originates from English tradition. English names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Keith?
Keith is a one-syllable name pronounced K IY1 TH. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Keith sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Keith flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Keith ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.