Keontay is a unique and distinctive given name of African American origin. It is derived from the combination of two names: Kevin and Antoine. The name Kevin is of Irish origin and means "handsome" or "attractive," while Antoine is of French origin and means "highly praiseworthy." Thus, Keontay can be interpreted as meaning "very handsome and praiseworthy."
The name Keontay gained popularity in the United States during the late 20th century. It is often associated with African American culture and has been carried by several notable figures in sports and entertainment. One famous bearer of the name is Keontay Ingram, a former professional football player who played for the New England Patriots.
Despite its relatively recent popularity, Keontay is steeped in history and culture. The names that make up Keontay have been passed down through generations and carry significant meanings in their own right. Kevin has Celtic origins and was historically associated with St. Kevin, an Irish monk known for his piety and devotion. Antoine, on the other hand, is derived from the Latin name Antonius, which was borne by several early Christian saints.
In conclusion, Keontay is a unique and distinctive given name that combines elements of Irish and French culture and history. Its meaning, "very handsome and praiseworthy," reflects its African American origins and the pride and dignity associated with this community.
The name Keontay has seen a varied range of popularity over the past three decades in the United States. In the early to mid-1990s, the name was given to an average of around 10 babies per year. However, it began to gain traction towards the end of the decade, with 20 births recorded in both 1998 and 2000.
The peak popularity of Keontay occurred between 2002 and 2004, during which time more than 20 babies were named Keontay each year. The highest number of Keontays was born in 2003, with a total of 26 births that year.
After this peak, the popularity of the name began to decline steadily. By the late 2010s and early 2020s, only around 5-6 babies were named Keontay each year. Despite this decrease in popularity, it is clear that Keontay has remained a distinctive and unique name choice for parents in the United States over time.
In total, from 1992 to 2023, there have been 355 babies named Keontay born in the United States. This demonstrates that while the popularity of the name may fluctuate over time, it has maintained a consistent presence in the American baby-naming landscape for the past three decades.