Kirstie is a feminine given name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Scottish surname Christie, which itself comes from the Gaelic word 'Crist', meaning 'Christian'. Kirstie was traditionally used as a pet form of Christopher, a name that was popular among families with Scottish ancestry.
The name Kirstie gained popularity in the English-speaking world during the 20th century. It is often associated with Scottish culture and heritage due to its origins. However, it has been used across various countries and cultures, making it a globally recognized name.
Kirstie is typically pronounced as /ˈkɜːrsti/ or /ˈkɪərsti/, depending on the regional accent. It is often spelled with an 'e' at the end to differentiate it from other similar names such as Kirsty (without the 'e') and Christie.
In terms of popularity, Kirstie peaked in the 1980s and 1990s but has since declined slightly. Despite this, it remains a popular choice for parents seeking a name with Scottish roots and a unique sound.
Overall, Kirstie is a distinctive feminine given name that carries a strong connection to its Scottish heritage while also being widely recognized around the world. Its meaning, "Christian," adds an additional layer of significance and warmth to this charming name.
The statistics regarding the name Kirstie in the United States show a fascinating trend over time. From 1950 to 2011, there were a total of 4151 babies named Kirstie born in the U.S.
During the early years, from 1950 to 1970, the name Kirstie was not very common. The number of births per year ranged from just 6 to a peak of 57 in 1970. However, starting in 1975, there was a significant increase in the popularity of the name Kirstie. In that year alone, there were 98 births, which marked a notable shift.
The peak of popularity for the name Kirstie occurred between 1988 and 1993. During these years, the number of babies named Kirstie born each year was consistently high, reaching a maximum of 635 births in 1991. This period represents the most significant impact the name Kirstie had on U.S. birth records.
However, like many names, Kirstie's popularity waned after its peak. From 1994 onwards, the number of babies named Kirstie decreased steadily year by year. By 2011, there were only 5 births recorded, indicating that the name has become quite rare once again in recent years.
These statistics provide an interesting insight into how the popularity of a name can fluctuate over time. The name Kirstie experienced periods of both growth and decline in popularity, reflecting broader societal trends and preferences. Understanding these patterns can help us appreciate the unique characteristics of names like Kirstie within the context of American naming culture.