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Skylar Unisex

Popularity: #133 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: SKY-lar //ˈskaɪ.lər//

Origin: English; Dutch

Meaning: English: scholar; Dutch: shelter

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Skylar has its roots in the Dutch surname Schuyler, which means "scholar" or "scholarly". The surname was derived from the Middle Dutch word "schuyl", meaning "to shelter" or "to protect", and was used to denote a person who was a scholar or had a scholarly disposition.

The name made its way into English through the Dutch settlers in America during the 17th century, particularly in New York, which was originally a Dutch colony known as New Amsterdam. Over time, the surname evolved into the given name Skylar, particularly gaining traction as a feminine name in the 20th century.

Historically, the name Schuyler was borne by notable figures, such as Philip Schuyler, a general in the American Revolutionary War and a prominent politician in New York during the 18th century. The Schuyler family was influential in early American history, and their legacy contributed to the name's recognition.

Additionally, the name's association with education and intellect through its etymological roots has made it appealing in various cultural contexts. Culturally, the name Skylar evokes imagery of the sky, which can symbolize freedom, aspiration, and vastness.

This connection to the natural world may enhance its resonance as a name associated with positive attributes. The name has also seen variations and diminutives, such as Sky, which further enrich its usage in different contexts.

Overall, Skylar's journey from a Dutch surname to a contemporary given name reflects a blend of linguistic evolution and cultural significance.

Famous people named Skylar

Skylar Astin is an actor and singer best known for Pitch Perfect, Pitch Perfect 2, and Spring Awakening.
Skylar Grey is a singer-songwriter best known for her work on Love the Way You Lie, Coming Home, and I Will Return.
Skylar Laine is a singer best known for her participation in American Idol Season 11.

Fictional characters named Skylar

Skylar is a fictional character from the TV series Breaking Bad. They are a key character who navigates the moral complexities of her husband's criminal activities.

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U.S. Historical Usage

The name Skylar was first seen in the United States in 1974. Skylar has ranked as high as #117 nationally, which occurred in 2015, and has been most popular in Texas, California, Florida, New York, and Georgia. In the past 5 years the name Skylar has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Skylar (2024)

State Births Share
TX 207
10%
CA 156
7%
FL 153
7%
NY 139
7%
GA 116
6%
NC 114
5%
PA 87
4%
IL 86
4%
VA 70
3%
OH 66
3%
NJ 58
3%
TN 57
3%
MD 56
3%
MA 52
2%
AL 51
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19746
19758
197610
197711
19787
197913
198011
198115
198214
198314
198420
198529
198661
1987106
1988116
1989127
1990419
1991364
1992413
1993547
1994621
1995685
1996855
1997953
19981,731
19992,513
20002,503
20012,344
20022,391
20032,305
20042,176
20052,241
20062,352
20072,060
20081,750
20091,774
20101,723
20112,161
20123,348
20133,789
20144,778
20155,294
20165,134
20174,736
20184,407
20194,049
20203,640
20213,346
20222,892
20232,537
20242,186