Kay

Variation of Gaius, Latin

"rejoice"

Kay Origin and Meaning

The name Kay is a boy's name.

Kay as a masculine name has diverse origins. It can be a short form of names like Kenneth or Kai, or derive from the Middle English word 'key.' In Arthurian legend, Sir Kay was King Arthur's foster brother and seneschal, lending the name a noble, medieval connection. It's also associated with the Old Norse name Kái, meaning 'rejoice.' This brief, one-syllable name has maintained steady but modest usage throughout the decades. Its simplicity and strong sound make it appealing for those seeking a straightforward yet distinctive name for a boy. Kay also has cross-cultural appeal, appearing in various forms in Germanic, Celtic, and Scandinavian traditions.

Kay Rank in US Top 1000

# 899 in the US

Kay Rank in Nameberry Top 1000

# 2354 on Nameberry

Popularity of the name Kay

• 110 Netherlands 2015

Famous People Named Kay

• Kay E. Kuter American actor
• Kay Kyser Bandleader, leader of Kay Kyser's Kollege of Musical Knowledge

The name Kay in Pop Culture

• Kay Faraday main character in Ace Attorney spinoff, 'Ace Attorney Investigations'
• Sir Kay (sometimes Key) King Arthur's foster brother and one of the first Knights of the Round Table
• Kai (or Kay) character from Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale "The Snow Queen"