Keiah is a distinctive, modern name of American origin, derived from the word 'key', symbolizing power and influence. This unique moniker has been rising in popularity since the late 20th century, often used as an alternative to more traditional names like Kayla or Kiera. Keiah is a unisex name, equally suitable for both boys and girls, although it's more commonly given to females. Pronounced /KEY-ah/, the emphasis lies on the first syllable, giving it a confident, assertive ring.
The name Keiah has had a limited but consistent presence in the United States since it first appeared in the baby name records in 1984. That year, there were five babies named Keiah, marking its debut on the list of most popular names for girls. Since then, the number of newborns with this unique moniker has remained relatively steady, hovering around five births per year throughout the decades. Despite not reaching the heights of popularity enjoyed by many other names, Keiah's consistent appearance in the birth records demonstrates that it has maintained a small but dedicated following among parents looking for distinctive names for their daughters.
In total, since 1984, there have been approximately 200 babies named Keiah born in the United States. This modest number highlights the name's status as an uncommon yet enduring choice for parents seeking something different from traditional favorites. While it may not rank among the most popular names each year, Keiah's consistent appearance over time suggests that it continues to appeal to a specific group of parents who appreciate its rarity and individuality.
Furthermore, it is worth noting that the name Keiah has shown some regional variations in popularity within the United States. Certain states have seen more babies named Keiah than others, with California and Texas consistently being among those with the highest numbers of newborns bearing this unique moniker. This geographic pattern suggests that the name may hold particular appeal for parents living in these areas, perhaps due to cultural or personal influences.
In conclusion, while not a widely popular choice, the name Keiah has maintained a steady presence in the United States since its debut in 1984. With approximately 200 births recorded over the past three decades and consistent regional variations in popularity, Keiah continues to be an uncommon yet enduring choice for parents seeking distinctive names for their daughters. Its longevity and dedicated following demonstrate that Keiah has carved out a unique niche for itself among American baby names.