Kye

“A keeper of the keys.”

English origin · Unisex name

♂ 94% boys♀ 6% girls

#941US 2023

240Births / yr

↓Falling

4.8kAll-time births

📅 Since 196000

What does Kye mean and where does it come from?

Kye is a modern name that has been used in English-speaking countries. Its origin is somewhat ambiguous, but it is often linked to the Old English word 'cy', which means key. The name has gained popularity in recent years, especially in the United States and Australia. It’s frequently chosen for its

Cultural significance

Kye has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a keeper of the keys..

Peak popularity

Reached #5686 in 2017 — currently #941 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Kye?

Kye works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Kye Grace

How popular is Kye right now?

Falling — down 71 spots — currently #941 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1960–2023#941 · Top 0.69%

1960

1990

2005

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#941	240	▼ down 71 · -13% births
2022	#870	277	▲ up 19 · +7% births
2021	#889	260	▲ up 7105 · +1900% births
2020	#7994	13	▲ up 2283 · +30% births
2015	#10277	10	▼ down 3054 · -37% births
2005	#7223	16	▼ down 217 · +33% births
1990	#7006	12	▲ up 67 · +140% births
1960	#7073	5	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Kye

Best Year2022Rank #870

Peak Count277

Average Rank#5284

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1960 - 20238 years

The story of Kye

Kye entered American naming records in 1960 and has been in use for over 64 years. With 4,764 total births recorded, Kye remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #7073 in 1960 to #941 in 2023. Kye is used for both genders: 6% female and 94% male.

Names that peaked alongside Kye in 2017:

Emma Olivia Ava Isabella Sophia

Kye by decade

Kye peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →

Decade	Births
1950s	23
1960s	59
1970s	114
1980s	249
1990s	489
2000s	1,184
2010s ★	2,349
2020s	297

💎With 4,764 total births, Kye is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Kye?

Common

KyieKyy

What names sound and feel like Kye?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kye also consider these

English · New or fresh.

English · A beloved name

Skye

United Kingdom · Cloud

Zkye

American · the sky

Common questions about the name Kye

What does the name Kye mean?

Kye means "A keeper of the keys." — 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 Kye?

Kye is currently ranked #941 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 Kye?

Kye 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 does Kye sound with different last names?

As a one-syllable name, Kye flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Kye ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.

Is Kye a common or rare name?

Kye is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.