What does Keylee mean and where does it come from?
Keylee is a modern English feminine name, often considered a variant of Kaylee. It gained popularity in the late 20th century in the United States and Australia. The name is thought to be derived from the Irish surname O'Ceallaigh, meaning 'descendant of Ceallach', which has connotations of 'warrior
Cultural significance
Keylee has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of her contribution is great.
Peak popularity
Reached #1974 in 2009 — currently #7329 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Keylee?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Keylee?
Keylee works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Keylee Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Keylee Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Keylee Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Keylee Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Keylee Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Keylee Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Keylee right now?
Falling — down 240 spots — currently #7329 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #7329 | 15 | ▼ down 240 · -6% births |
| 2024 | #7089 | 16 | ▲ up 1634 · +33% births |
| 2023 | #8723 | 12 | ▼ down 2624 · -40% births |
| 2022 | #6099 | 20 | ▲ up 436 · +11% births |
| 2021 | #6535 | 18 | ▼ down 1183 · -22% births |
| 2020 | #5352 | 23 | ▼ down 825 · -26% births |
| 2015 | #4527 | 31 | ▼ down 2279 · -64% births |
| 2010 | #2248 | 86 | ▲ up 381 · +32% births |
| 2005 | #2629 | 65 | ▲ up 815 · +67% births |
| 2000 | #3444 | 39 | ▲ up 319 · +34% births |
| 1995 | #3763 | 29 | ▲ up 5304 · +222% births |
| 1990 | #9067 | 9 | ▲ up 3045 · +80% births |
| 1985 | #12112 | 5 | — |
The story of Keylee
Keylee is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1984. With 1,460 total births recorded, Keylee remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #12112 in 1985 to #8723 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Keylee in 2009:
Keylee by decade
Keylee peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1980s | 30 | |
| 1990s | 233 | |
| 2000s ★ | 679 | |
| 2010s | 495 | |
| 2020s | 54 | |
💎With 1,460 total births, Keylee is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Keylee?
What names sound and feel like Keylee?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Keylee also consider these
Common questions about the name Keylee
What does the name Keylee mean?
Keylee means "her contribution is great" — a name rooted in American 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 Keylee?
Keylee is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl 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 Keylee?
Keylee originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Keylee a common or rare name?
Keylee is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Keylee?
Keylee naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.