Kyle Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationKYLE / /kaɪl/Irish; Scottish
Meaning
Irish: narrow; Scottish: from the channel
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Kyle has its roots in the Scottish Gaelic language, deriving from the word "caol," which means "narrow" or "strait." This etymology reflects the geographical features of Scotland, particularly the narrow channels of water found in the region. The name is believed to have originated as a surname, denoting someone who lived near such a strait or narrow place, and it eventually transitioned into a given name. The earliest recorded use of Kyle as a personal name can be traced back to the 20th century, although its surname form has been documented much earlier in Scottish history.
Historically, the name Kyle has been associated with various geographical locations in Scotland, such as Kyle of Lochalsh and Kyle of Bute, which further solidified its connection to the landscape. The name gained prominence in the 19th century, particularly through literary works and cultural references that highlighted Scottish heritage. Notably, the name has appeared in various forms of literature and folklore, contributing to its recognition as a symbol of Scottish identity.
Culturally, Kyle has been embraced for its connotations of strength and resilience, qualities often associated with the rugged Scottish terrain. The name has also been linked to various historical figures, although specific notable individuals bearing the name in earlier centuries are less documented. The diminutive form "Ky" has emerged in modern usage, reflecting a trend towards shorter, more casual names. Overall, Kyle's enduring presence in both Scottish culture and the broader English-speaking world underscores its significance as a name that embodies geographical and cultural heritage.
Trend Summary
Kyle experienced significant popularity in the United States during the 1980s and 1990s.
Similar Names
Variants
- Kail
- Kyl
International Variants
- Cayo (Spanish)
- Kail (Scottish)
Famous people named Kyle
Kyle MacLachlan is an actor best known for Twin Peaks, Dune, and Portlandia.
Kyle Chandler is an actor best known for Friday Night Lights, Bloodline, and Early Edition.
Kyle Richards is an actress and television personality best known for The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Halloween, and Little House on the Prairie.
Kyle Lowry is a professional basketball player best known for his time with the Toronto Raptors and winning the NBA Championship.
Kyle Gass is a musician and actor best known for being a member of Tenacious D and for his work in the film The Pick of Destiny.
Kyle XY is a fictional character from the television series Kyle XY, known for his mysterious origins and abilities.
Kyle Baker is a cartoonist and graphic novelist best known for his work on Why I Hate Saturn, and the comic adaptation of The Shadow.
Kyle Dunnigan is a comedian and actor best known for his work on Reno 911! and his stand-up comedy specials.
Kyle Hill is a science communicator and writer best known for his work on YouTube and as a host of the show Because Science.
Fictional characters named Kyle
Kyle Rayner is a fictional character from the comic book series Green Lantern. He is one of the Green Lanterns, known for wielding the power ring and being a key member of the Green Lantern Corps.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Kyle was first seen in the United States in 1881. Kyle has ranked as high as #25 nationally, which occurred in 1990, and has been most popular in California, New York, Ohio, Illinois, and Michigan. In the past 5 years the name Kyle has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Kyle (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 96 | |
NY | 67 | |
TX | 61 | |
FL | 46 | |
PA | 35 | |
OH | 27 | |
MI | 22 | |
IL | 21 | |
MD | 20 | |
IN | 20 | |
GA | 19 | |
MA | 16 | |
AZ | 15 | |
WI | 14 | |
MO | 14 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1881 | 5 |
1888 | 9 |
1889 | 5 |
1890 | 5 |
1891 | 7 |
1892 | 6 |
1893 | 7 |
1894 | 10 |
1895 | 7 |
1896 | 6 |
1899 | 7 |
1900 | 7 |
1902 | 7 |
1903 | 7 |
1904 | 10 |
1905 | 9 |
1906 | 10 |
1907 | 8 |
1908 | 10 |
1909 | 11 |
1910 | 15 |
1911 | 11 |
1912 | 35 |
1913 | 25 |
1914 | 42 |
1915 | 65 |
1916 | 62 |
1917 | 75 |
1918 | 67 |
1919 | 52 |
1920 | 85 |
1921 | 67 |
1922 | 81 |
1923 | 68 |
1924 | 88 |
1925 | 84 |
1926 | 85 |
1927 | 102 |
1928 | 74 |
1929 | 80 |
1930 | 89 |
1931 | 79 |
1932 | 78 |
1933 | 74 |
1934 | 87 |
1935 | 114 |
1936 | 96 |
1937 | 106 |
1938 | 77 |
1939 | 101 |
1940 | 94 |
1941 | 119 |
1942 | 112 |
1943 | 121 |
1944 | 96 |
1945 | 81 |
1946 | 107 |
1947 | 151 |
1948 | 130 |
1949 | 144 |
1950 | 239 |
1951 | 343 |
1952 | 381 |
1953 | 360 |
1954 | 402 |
1955 | 403 |
1956 | 470 |
1957 | 1,033 |
1958 | 1,011 |
1959 | 1,146 |
1960 | 1,262 |
1961 | 1,159 |
1962 | 1,712 |
1963 | 1,628 |
1964 | 1,478 |
1965 | 1,169 |
1966 | 1,954 |
1967 | 2,139 |
1968 | 1,943 |
1969 | 2,135 |
1970 | 2,764 |
1971 | 2,825 |
1972 | 2,477 |
1973 | 2,373 |
1974 | 2,599 |
1975 | 2,832 |
1976 | 3,309 |
1977 | 3,506 |
1978 | 4,517 |
1979 | 5,450 |
1980 | 5,776 |
1981 | 6,571 |
1982 | 8,208 |
1983 | 12,372 |
1984 | 12,547 |
1985 | 16,520 |
1986 | 19,315 |
1987 | 19,866 |
1988 | 19,896 |
1989 | 20,879 |
1990 | 22,710 |
1991 | 21,610 |
1992 | 20,714 |
1993 | 19,455 |
1994 | 18,398 |
1995 | 16,761 |
1996 | 15,600 |
1997 | 15,920 |
1998 | 15,276 |
1999 | 13,774 |
2000 | 11,969 |
2001 | 10,568 |
2002 | 10,063 |
2003 | 8,651 |
2004 | 7,826 |
2005 | 6,688 |
2006 | 6,150 |
2007 | 5,354 |
2008 | 4,705 |
2009 | 4,179 |
2010 | 3,580 |
2011 | 3,268 |
2012 | 2,967 |
2013 | 2,589 |
2014 | 2,388 |
2015 | 2,392 |
2016 | 2,039 |
2017 | 1,839 |
2018 | 1,680 |
2019 | 1,386 |
2020 | 1,055 |
2021 | 897 |
2022 | 807 |
2023 | 755 |
2024 | 716 |