What does Skylar mean and where does it come from?
Skylar is a name growing in popularity in the United States, especially since the 1980s. It is derived from the Dutch surname 'Schuyler', meaning 'scholar'. The name evokes a sense of intelligence and curiosity and is sometimes used for both genders. Famous individuals include Skylar Grey, an Americ
Cultural significance
Skylar has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of scholar.
Peak popularity
Reached #42 in 2015 — currently #107 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Skylar?
Skylar works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Skylar Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Skylar Rose
Floral · soft ending
Skylar Mae
Sweet · timeless
Skylar Claire
French influence · crisp
Skylar Jane
Literary · strong
Skylar Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Skylar right now?
Declining — down 20 spots — currently #107 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #107 | 2,537 | ▼ down 20 · -12% births |
| 2022 | #87 | 2,892 | ▼ down 13 · -14% births |
| 2021 | #74 | 3,346 | ▼ down 11 · -7% births |
| 2020 | #63 | 3,608 | ▼ down 21 · -32% births |
| 2015 | #42 | 5,281 | ▲ up 139 · +207% births |
| 2010 | #181 | 1,719 | ▼ down 27 · -23% births |
| 2005 | #154 | 2,241 | ▼ down 19 · -10% births |
| 2000 | #135 | 2,503 | ▲ up 251 · +265% births |
| 1995 | #386 | 685 | ▲ up 176 · +64% births |
| 1990 | #562 | 418 | ▲ up 2564 · +1341% births |
| 1985 | #3126 | 29 | ▲ up 2988 · +164% births |
| 1980 | #6114 | 11 | ▲ up 702 · +38% births |
| 1975 | #6816 | 8 | — |
The story of Skylar
Skylar is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1974. Its peak popularity was #42 in 2015. A total of 92,018 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #6816 in 1975 to #107 in 2023. Skylar is used for both genders: 81% female and 19% male.
Names that peaked alongside Skylar in 2015:
Skylar by decade
Skylar peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1950s | 10 | |
| 1960s | 40 | |
| 1970s | 171 | |
| 1980s | 2,091 | |
| 1990s | 14,868 | |
| 2000s | 28,044 | |
| 2010s ★ | 43,027 | |
| 2020s | 3,767 | |
What are good nicknames for Skylar?
What names sound and feel like Skylar?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Skylar also consider these
How is Skylar written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Skylar
What does the name Skylar mean?
Skylar means "scholar" — 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 Skylar?
Skylar is currently ranked #107 in the United States 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 Skylar?
Skylar 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 Skylar?
Skylar is a two-syllable name pronounced S K AY1 L AA1 R. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Skylar more of a girl or boy name?
Skylar is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.