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Cai Unisex

Popularity: #841 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: Kye //kaɪ//

Origin: Welsh; Latin; Chinese

Meaning: Welsh: pure; Latin: rejoice; Chinese: talent

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Cai has its roots in ancient languages, primarily deriving from the Latin name 'Caius,' which is believed to have originated from the Roman family name 'Caius' or 'Gaius.' The etymology of Caius can be traced back to the Latin verb 'capere,' meaning 'to seize' or 'to take.' This name was commonly used in ancient Rome and has been associated with various notable historical figures, including several early Roman emperors and prominent citizens, which contributed to its enduring presence in history. In the context of biblical history, Caius appears in the New Testament, notably as a companion of the Apostle Paul.

The name is mentioned in the Book of Acts and in the letters of Paul, indicating its significance in early Christian communities. The Latin form 'Caius' was later translated into Greek as 'Kaios,' further embedding the name within Christian texts and traditions.

The name's biblical connections helped to sustain its use throughout the centuries, particularly in Christian contexts. Culturally, the name Cai has been associated with strength and leadership, reflecting its etymological roots in the concept of seizing or taking.

This association has allowed the name to resonate within various cultures, particularly in regions influenced by Roman and Christian traditions. In some cultures, diminutive forms such as 'Cai' or 'Kai' have emerged, reflecting a softer or more familiar version of the name while still retaining its historical significance.

Overall, the name Cai embodies a rich tapestry of linguistic evolution, historical milestones, and cultural resonance that has contributed to its lasting legacy.

Famous people named Cai

Cai Guo-Qiang is an artist best known for his explosive artworks, including Sky Ladder and the 2008 Beijing Olympics opening ceremony.

Fictional characters named Cai

Cai is a fictional character from the novel The Three-Body Problem by Liu Cixin. He is a key figure in the story, representing the human perspective in the complex interactions with an alien civilization.

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U.S. Historical Usage

The name Cai was first seen in the United States in 1989. Cai has ranked as high as #1285 nationally, which occurred in 2022, and has been most popular in Texas, Florida, California, Georgia, and North Carolina. In the past 5 years the name Cai has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Cai (2024)

State Births Share
CA 9
26%
TX 7
21%
FL 7
21%
PA 6
18%
LA 5
15%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19895
199010
19939
19948
19956
19966
19977
19988
19996
200016
200117
200220
200325
200427
200529
200623
200729
200839
200941
201038
201139
201254
201355
201471
201582
201682
201768
201865
201966
202066
202187
2022108
202386
202483