Kay: Name Meaning, Origin, and Popularity

Pronunciation: KAY
Origin: English
gender-male

Emmy Samtani

Emmy Samtani

Emmy is the founder of Kiindred and mother to 3 little ones. Over the last 4 years, she has worked with some of the most credible experts in the parenting space and is a keen contributor on all things parenthood.
Updated on Jul 01, 2025 · 1 min read
Region Origin: English
Meaning: The name "Kay" means "rejoice" or "happy."

Kay is a unisex name with a rich history and cultural significance. It is often used as a given name and can be a standalone first name or a diminutive of names like Katherine or Kenneth. The name Kay has appeared in various literary works and folklore, often symbolizing nobility and charm. In the realm of celebrities, Kay has been borne by individuals across diverse fields. For instance, Kay Kendall was a celebrated British actress known for her work in the mid-20th century. In the music industry, Kay Hanley gained recognition as the lead singer of the American band Letters to Cleo. These figures have contributed to the name's association with creativity and talent. With its simple yet elegant sound, Kay has maintained its appeal across generations, appealing to those who appreciate a name that is both classic and adaptable.

Kay Name Popularity Data

chat-overall Kay is currently #24302 in the popularity of the name rankings.
gender-female Boy: Kay is currently #10468 on Kiindred Boy Names

Popularity Trend Chart

Source: Social Security Administration

Baby Names A-Z

Wikipedia, NSW Births Deaths and Marriages, QLD Registry of Births, Deaths & Marriages, WA Registry of Births, SA Registry of Births, VIC Registry of Births, Social Security Administration

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