Skye is a unisex given name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic word "Sìth", which means fairy or enchantment. The name Skye is also associated with the Isle of Skye, one of the Inner Hebrides islands off the west coast of Scotland. The island's name comes from the Norse word "Skyø", meaning cloud island.
The use of Skye as a given name began to gain popularity in the late 20th century, particularly among English-speaking countries such as the United States and Australia. It is often used for both boys and girls, although it tends to be more popular for females. Some famous people with the name Skye include American actress Skye McCole Bartusiak and Australian singer-songwriter Skye Edwards.
Overall, the name Skye has a unique and intriguing origin, drawing from Scottish Gaelic mythology and Norse history. Its meaning of enchantment or fairy adds to its mystical appeal, while its association with the Isle of Skye gives it a sense of place and natural beauty. Despite its recent rise in popularity, Skye remains a relatively uncommon name, making it an attractive choice for parents seeking something distinctive for their child.
The name Skye experienced a significant increase in popularity from the late 1970s onwards, with a notable spike starting in 1979 and peaking in 1995. After reaching its zenith in the mid-90s, the number of births with the name Skye gradually decreased but has remained relatively stable since the early 2000s.