Kyleigh is a modern and unique given name of Irish origin. The name is derived from the Irish surname "O'Cathalain," which means "descendant of Cathalán." Cathalán was a famous Irish warrior chief who lived in the 10th century. The name Kyleigh is believed to have evolved from the nickname form of this surname, possibly through an association with the Irish word "caol" meaning "slender" or "slim."
The name Kyleigh gained popularity in English-speaking countries during the late 20th and early 21st centuries. It is often used as a feminine given name but can also be used for males due to its unisex nature. The name has been popularized by various celebrities, including American actresses like Kyleigh Curran and Kyleigh Kuhn.
While there are no specific historical figures associated with the name Kyleigh, it carries a rich heritage from its Irish roots. Its meaning and origin make it an attractive choice for parents looking for a distinctive and meaningful name for their child.
In the United States, the name Kyleigh appeared in the top 1000 baby names for girls only once, in the year 2004. During this year, there were a total of 6 births with the name Kyleigh out of an estimated 4 million births nationwide. This means that approximately 0.00015% of all babies born that year were named Kyleigh. Despite its limited popularity, it is still interesting to note that the name was chosen for at least six families during this time period. While the name may not have been widespread in terms of popularity, it did manage to make an appearance on the birth records of the United States in 2004.