“pure; keeper of the keys; light” — Associated with various notable figures
American origin · Unisex name
♂ 67% boys♀ 33% girls
#1152US 2023
182Births / yr
↑Rising
4.6kAll-time births
📅 Since 192500
How to pronounce Kit
KIT
/ˈkɪt/ · stress on KIT · 1 syllable
“pure; keeper of the keys; light”
Associated with various notable figures · American origin
What does Kit mean and where does it come from?
Kit can be a diminutive form of Katherine or a standalone name. The name has been used since the Middle Ages and is associated with various notable figures, including Kit Harington, an actor known for his role in 'Game of Thrones'. Variations of Kit may also be found in different cultures, but it is
Cultural significance
Kit has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of pure; keeper of the keys; light.
Peak popularity
Reached #1367 in 1957 — currently #1152 in the US.
Rising fast — up 219 spots — currently #1152 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1925–2023#1152 · Top 0.85%
1955
1960
1965
1970
1975
1980
1990
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1152
182
▲ up 219 · +33% births
2022
#1371
137
▲ up 45 · +5% births
2021
#1416
130
▲ up 766 · +59% births
2020
#2182
82
▲ up 2666 · +193% births
2015
#4848
28
▲ up 3855 · +115% births
2010
#8703
13
▲ up 3151 · +63% births
2005
#11854
8
▲ up 3211 · +60% births
2000
#15065
5
▼ down 2061
1990
#13004
5
▼ down 8253 · -67% births
1980
#4751
15
▲ up 4368 · +200% births
1975
#9119
5
▼ down 4849 · -62% births
1970
#4270
13
▼ down 997 · -13% births
1965
#3273
15
▼ down 1436 · -61% births
1960
#1837
38
▼ down 336 · -17% births
1955
#1501
46
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Kit
2023Rank #1152
182
#5027
↗Rising
1925 - 202319 years
The story of Kit
Kit entered American naming records in 1925 and has been in use for over 99 years. With 4,625 total births recorded, Kit remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5014 in 1925 to #1152 in 2023. Kit is used for both genders: 33% female and 67% male.
Kit means "pure; keeper of the keys; light" — 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 Kit?
Kit is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Kit have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Kit?
Kit 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.
How do you pronounce the name Kit?
Kit is a one-syllable name pronounced K IH1 T. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Kit sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Kit flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Kit ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Sibling names that pair with Kit
For a sister
Kit & Summer♡
Kit & Rosemary♡
Kit & Dariel♡
Kit & Marshall♡
For a brother
Kit & Wesley♡
Kit & Summer♡
Kit & Jason♡
Kit & Rosemary♡
Save your shortlist
Get your saved names emailed to you + weekly picks