Kaleigh is a unique and intriguing feminine given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the ancient Irish name Caoilinn, which means "slender" or "fine-haired". The name Kaleigh is believed to have evolved from Caoilinn through various spellings and modifications over time.
The name Caoilinn was quite popular in Ireland during the Middle Ages and was often associated with powerful and respected figures. It is said that the name gained even more popularity after it was used by a character in the 13th-century Irish epic, "The Adventures of the Earls of Lochlann".
Over time, the spelling of Caoilinn evolved into various forms such as Keelin, Kellin, Kaelin, and ultimately Kaleigh. These variations were likely influenced by different regions and dialects throughout Ireland.
Today, Kaleigh is a unique and beautiful name that stands out from more common feminine names. It retains its Irish roots but has gained international popularity in recent years. People with the name Kaleigh are often drawn to its musical sound and its connection to rich Irish history and culture. Despite its origins, Kaleigh is not typically associated with any particular traits or characteristics, allowing each person named Kaleigh to create their own unique identity.
The given statistics show the annual number of births with the name Kaleigh in the United States from 1980 to 2023. Over this period, there has been a significant increase in the popularity of the name, reaching a peak in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
From 1980 to 1985, the number of births with the name Kaleigh remained relatively low, with fewer than 100 births per year. However, from 1986 onwards, there was a steady increase in the popularity of the name, reaching its peak in 2001 with 729 births.
After 2001, the number of births with the name Kaleigh began to decline steadily. Between 2005 and 2015, the annual number of births with this name ranged from around 600 to 250 births per year. In recent years, the popularity of the name has continued to decrease, with only 78 births recorded in 2023.
Overall, these statistics show that while the name Kaleigh was quite popular among parents in the United States for a period of time, its popularity has since declined significantly. Despite this decline, it remains a name that has been given to thousands of babies over the past four decades.