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The name Kaye is a girl's name meaning "pure".

4 Letter Girl Names

Names Ending in E for Girls

Two Syllable Names for Girls

Names that Peaked in 1943

Kaye and its more popular sister Kay, once common short forms of the perennially popular Katherine, are now on the endangered list, given to fewer than 50 baby girls each year. But maybe that makes them prime for a comeback? Rarer than Kate, in any case.

Croc Names

Endangered Baby Names

Kaye

The name Kaye is currently ranked #6442 in U.S. births. and peaked for girls at #322 in 1943. Kaye is occasionally used for boys in 1957.

4 Letter Boy Names

Names Ending in E for Boys

Two Syllable Names for Boys

Names that Peaked in 1932

Kaye as a masculine name represents an uncommon gender assignment for what is typically considered a feminine name in most Western countries. As a male name, it likely derives from the surname Kay or Kaye, which has Scottish and Celtic origins related to the word 'quay' (a loading dock) or possibly from a location name. The name Kay for men has historical precedent in Arthurian legend, where Sir Kay was King Arthur's foster brother and seneschal. The spelling 'Kaye' gives this short, simple name a slightly more distinctive appearance. While most commonly used for women in contemporary times, there is a minor tradition of using it as a male name or nickname. The gender-crossing nature of Kaye makes it an intriguing choice for parents seeking a gentle yet established name that defies typical gender associations.

The name Kaye peaked for boys at #806 in 1932. Kaye is occasionally used for girls in 2025.

Year	US rank	Births	Per million
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Kaye

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