Pure; rejoice
Kay originated as a short form of Katherine, meaning pure, but also has roots as a diminutive of names like Kaisa or as a standalone name derived from the Latin 'Gaius', meaning to rejoice. It was highly popular in the mid-20th century and is now considered a sleek, vintage choice.
Less common today
Kay isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #1,386 in 1990.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
Author of the 'Eloise' book series
The wife of Michael Corleone · The Godfather
American actress and zoologist
Former United States Senator from Texas
English actress and comedian
American novelist and political activist
