What does Keri mean and where does it come from?
Keri is a name of both Irish and Welsh origins. In Ireland, it can be derived from the Gaelic word 'ciar', meaning 'dark' or 'black', often used as a descriptive term. In the Welsh context, Keri means 'pure'. Keri gained popularity as a given name in the United States in the 20th century, particular
Cultural significance
Keri has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of little dark one.
Peak popularity
Reached #173 in 1976 — currently #986 in the US.
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Related Reading
Ireland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Keri?
Keri works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Keri Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Keri Rose
Floral · soft ending
Keri Claire
French influence · crisp
Keri Jane
Literary · strong
Keri Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Keri right now?
Holding steady — currently #986 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #986 | 1,214 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #991 | 1,194 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #996 | 1,164 | ▲ up 6232 · +7660% births |
| 2020 | #7228 | 15 | ▼ down 3449 · -62% births |
| 2015 | #3779 | 40 | ▼ down 1184 · -43% births |
| 2010 | #2595 | 70 | ▼ down 431 · -18% births |
| 2005 | #2164 | 85 | ▼ down 1128 · -58% births |
| 2000 | #1036 | 203 | ▼ down 391 · -39% births |
| 1995 | #645 | 335 | ▼ down 257 · -51% births |
| 1990 | #388 | 678 | ▼ down 133 · -31% births |
| 1985 | #255 | 977 | ▲ up 6 · -1% births |
| 1980 | #261 | 983 | ▼ down 87 · -35% births |
| 1975 | #174 | 1,503 | ▲ up 155 · +87% births |
| 1970 | #329 | 802 | ▲ up 202 · +148% births |
| 1965 | #531 | 324 | — |
The story of Keri
Keri entered American naming records in 1946 and has been in use for over 78 years. A total of 32,319 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3221 in 1950 to #986 in 2023. Keri is used for both genders: 99% female and 1% male.
Names that peaked alongside Keri in 1976:
Keri by decade
Keri peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1940s | 41 | |
| 1950s | 815 | |
| 1960s | 3,889 | |
| 1970s ★ | 12,427 | |
| 1980s | 9,564 | |
| 1990s | 4,063 | |
| 2000s | 1,081 | |
| 2010s | 424 | |
| 2020s | 15 | |
What are good nicknames for Keri?
What names sound and feel like Keri?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Keri also consider these
How is Keri written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Keri
What does the name Keri mean?
Keri means "little dark one" — a name rooted in Ireland 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 Keri?
Keri is currently ranked #986 as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Keri?
Keri originates from Ireland tradition. Ireland names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Keri a common or rare name?
Keri is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Keri more of a girl or boy name?
Keri is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.