Cage Boy
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: KAYJ //keɪdʒ//
Origin: English; French
Meaning: English: cage; French: a protective enclosure
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Cage has its roots in the Old French word "cage," which means "enclosure" or "a place for birds." This term itself derives from the Latin word "cāgia," meaning "a trap" or "a cage," which can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root *kāg-, meaning "to catch" or "to seize." The transition of the name into English occurred during the Norman Conquest of England in the 11th century, when many Old French words entered the English lexicon, particularly in the context of architecture and domestic life. Historically, the name Cage has not been widely documented as a personal name until more recent centuries.
However, it has appeared in various contexts, including as a surname. Notably, the surname Cage may have been used to denote someone who lived near a birdcage or a trapper, reflecting the occupational naming conventions of the time.
The name has also been associated with notable figures, such as John Cage, a 20th-century American composer known for his avant-garde contributions to music, which further popularized the name in cultural discussions. Culturally, the name Cage evokes themes of confinement and protection, as suggested by its etymological roots.
In literature and art, cages often symbolize both physical and emotional barriers, as well as the desire for freedom. The name may also resonate with notions of artistry and creativity, particularly in the context of its association with John Cage, who challenged traditional boundaries in music and performance.
While the name Cage is not widely used as a first name historically, its unique connotations and artistic connections lend it a distinct character.
Famous people named Cage
Fictional characters named Cage
Sibling suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Cage was first seen in the United States in 1992. Cage has ranked as high as #1321 nationally, which occurred in 2012, and has been most popular in Texas, California, Ohio, Georgia, and Kentucky. In the past 5 years the name Cage has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Cage (2015)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| TX | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1992 | 9 |
| 1993 | 10 |
| 1994 | 8 |
| 1995 | 10 |
| 1996 | 13 |
| 1997 | 15 |
| 1998 | 30 |
| 1999 | 30 |
| 2000 | 40 |
| 2001 | 30 |
| 2002 | 43 |
| 2003 | 47 |
| 2004 | 47 |
| 2005 | 36 |
| 2006 | 48 |
| 2007 | 38 |
| 2008 | 54 |
| 2009 | 53 |
| 2010 | 44 |
| 2011 | 53 |
| 2012 | 60 |
| 2013 | 37 |
| 2014 | 27 |
| 2015 | 29 |
| 2016 | 38 |
| 2017 | 23 |
| 2018 | 25 |
| 2019 | 24 |
| 2020 | 21 |
| 2021 | 18 |
| 2022 | 13 |
| 2023 | 15 |
| 2024 | 9 |