Kaye is a unique and distinctive name of English origin. Its meaning can vary depending on the context in which it is used. In some cases, Kaye is considered a variant spelling of the name "Kay", which means "pure" or "clear". This name has its roots in the Old Norse female given name "Káinn", which was derived from the word "kæin", meaning "pure" or "clean".
Alternatively, Kaye can also be seen as a diminutive form of the name "Catherine" or its variants such as "Kate". In this case, the name carries the same meanings and associations as those names. Catherine is of Greek origin and means "pure" or "innocent", derived from the word "katharos".
The name Kaye has a long history and has been used throughout different periods in various cultures. It was popular among the Vikings during the Middle Ages, where it was often used for female children born into noble families. The name also gained popularity in English-speaking countries during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Today, Kaye is still considered a unique and charming name choice for both boys and girls. Despite its origins in the past, this name remains modern and relevant due to its simplicity and ease of pronunciation. Those who bear the name Kaye are often admired for their individuality and independent spirit.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Kaye experienced a significant surge in popularity during the early to mid-1930s in the United States. The number of babies named Kaye increased from 29 births in 1930 to a peak of 63 births in 1932. This represents an impressive growth rate of over 117% within just two years.
However, this popularity was short-lived and the name began to decline thereafter. By 1935, the number of births had fallen to 43, marking a decrease of around 30%. This downward trend continued throughout the decade, with only minor fluctuations. For instance, in 1937, there were just 15 babies named Kaye born that year, which is a significant drop from the peak in 1932.
This decline persisted into the following decades. The statistics show a steady decrease in popularity for the name Kaye, with only occasional slight increases. For example, after reaching a low point of 5 births in both 1954 and 1957, there was a brief uptick to 9 births in 1951.
In total, over the period from 1920 to 1957, there were 503 babies named Kaye born in the United States. This data suggests that while Kaye was relatively popular during specific time periods, it never became a common name nationwide. Instead, its popularity fluctuated significantly year by year.