Keontae is a unique and intriguing male given name of African American origin. It is derived from the Swahili word "Kontae", which means "to make a decision". This name has gained popularity in recent years, particularly among families seeking distinctive names for their children.
The name Keontae is believed to have been introduced into popular culture by rapper Keonte' George, who goes by the stage name Lil Keke. He was born on December 12, 1976, and hails from Port Arthur, Texas. Although he did not coin the name himself, his fame has contributed significantly to its widespread recognition.
There is no historical figure or notable personality named Keontae that predates Lil Keke's rise to fame. As such, the name does not have a long-standing history associated with it. However, this lack of historical precedent has not hindered its appeal among parents who appreciate its uniqueness and powerful meaning.
In terms of pronunciation, Keontae is typically pronounced /kiːˈoʊnteɪ/. It is stressed on the second syllable ("-onte"), giving it a distinctive rhythm that sets it apart from more traditional names.
While Keontae may not have the rich historical background of some other names, its unique origins and powerful meaning make it an attractive choice for parents seeking a distinctive name for their child. Its popularity has been steadily increasing in recent years, suggesting that many families appreciate its combination of uniqueness and strength.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Keontae has seen a significant increase in popularity among parents in the United States from 1987 to 2023. Initially, there were only 5 births each year for both 1987 and 1988. However, starting from 1990, there was a notable increase, with 7 births that year.
The name's popularity peaked in the late 1990s to early 2000s, reaching its highest point in 2000 with 85 births. This trend continued until 2004, with at least 30 births each year. However, there was a slight dip in popularity from 2005 to 2010, with the number of births ranging between 30 and 61 annually.
Since 2011, the popularity of the name Keontae has remained relatively consistent, with around 20 to 30 births per year. The most recent data from 2022 shows that there were 27 births, indicating that while it may not be as popular as it once was, the name Keontae continues to be chosen by parents in the United States.
In total, between 1987 and 2023, there have been 1,154 births registered with the name Keontae in the United States. This demonstrates that while the popularity of the name has fluctuated over time, it remains a distinctive and recognizable choice among parents across several decades.