Kelis is a unique and distinctive female given name of African-American origin. It is derived from the Greek word "Chloe," which means "blooming" or "young green shoot." In some cases, Kelis may also be considered a variant spelling of the name Kelly, which has Irish origins and means "bright-headed."
The name Kelis gained popularity in the United States during the late 1990s and early 2000s, largely due to its association with American singer and songwriter Kelis Rogers, who is professionally known simply as Kelis. Born on August 21, 1979, in New York City, Kelis rose to prominence in the music industry with her unique voice and distinctive musical style, blending elements of R&B, hip-hop, and pop.
While Kelis as a given name may not have an extensive historical background or widespread international usage, its African-American origin and association with the talented musician have contributed to its recognition and popularity. Today, Kelis remains a relatively uncommon yet memorable and unique female name, carrying with it connotations of creativity, individuality, and strength.
The name Kelis has been a rare but consistent choice among parents in the United States over time. According to statistical data, there were only 6 babies named Kelis born each year between 2000 and 2018. This means that during this nearly two-decade period, a total of 90 newborns were given the name Kelis.
While the number of births with this name is small compared to more popular choices, it's notable that the name has maintained some level of popularity year after year. Parents who chose Kelis for their daughters likely did so because they felt it was unique and distinctive, as its infrequent usage can attest.
Overall, while Kelis may not be one of the most common names in the United States, those who bear this name are part of a select group with a steady track record since the turn of the 21st century.