The name Keith is of Scottish origin and it means "handsome" or "gay." It is derived from the Gaelic word "Ceiteach," which has its roots in the Old English words "ceap" meaning "fair-haired" or "fair-skinned." The name was brought to England by the Normans, who invaded Britain in the 11th century.
The name Keith became popular in Scotland during the Middle Ages and was traditionally used as a given name for boys. However, over time it has also been used as a surname, with many families tracing their lineage back to Scottish roots.
Throughout history, several notable figures have carried the name Keith. One of the most famous is Sir William Keith (1665-1749), who was a Scottish portrait painter and member of the Royal Academy of Painting in Scotland. Another notable figure is John Keith (1783-1829), who served as Governor of Puerto Rico under Spanish rule.
Today, Keith remains a popular given name for boys, especially in English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia. According to some sources, it peaked in popularity during the 1950s and 1960s but has since declined slightly in usage. However, it continues to be a beloved name chosen by parents for their sons.
In conclusion, Keith is a Scottish name with a meaning that suggests beauty or happiness. Its history spans centuries and includes notable figures who have carried the name with pride. Despite some fluctuations in popularity over time, Keith remains a strong and classic choice for boys' names today.
The name Keith has seen varied popularity over the years in the United States. Between 1969 and 1988, there were a total of 94 babies named Keith. The year with the highest number of births was 1969 with 11 newborns named Keith. This trend continued until the mid-1970s when the popularity started to decrease slightly, with only 5 or 6 births per year between 1976 and 1983. However, there was a resurgence in the late 1980s with 11 babies named Keith in 1986. Overall, while Keith has not been one of the most popular names in recent decades, it has maintained a steady presence among baby names in the United States.