MallowbyNames

Caya

KAY-uh · of uncertain origin; possibly a modern variant of Kaya or a short form of names like Acacia

Peak popularity
2004
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Caya since 1992

Babies named Caya per year in U.S. Social Security records.

61218200020102020Most births 2004Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1990s26
2000s94
2010s43
2020s29

Meaning & origin

Caya is a modern feminine name that first appeared on U.S. birth records in 1992, making it a relatively recent addition to the American name pool. Its popularity peaked in 2004, though it never entered the top 1000 names, reflecting its status as a rare but recognized choice. The trajectory from 1992 onward has been stable, with occasional slight fluctuations. Caya is typically considered a girl's name and may be seen as a contemporary alternative to similar-sounding names like Maya or Kaya.

Caya is a modern name that emerged in the late 20th century, first recorded in the United States in 1992. It may have been inspired by the sound of names such as Kaya (from Japanese or Turkish origins) or as a feminine variant of Cayo. Its rise in the 2000s suggests a fashionable coinage rather than a traditional name with deep historical roots.

Nicknames & variants

Variants: Kaya, Caiya, Kaiya

Sibling names for Caya

Names that share Caya's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Maya, Leila, Nova, Isla, Zara

Brothers: Jace, Kai, Ezra, Milo, Leo

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

C is for Caya, our favorite little girl.

C is for Caya…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Caya's letter becomes Caya's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Caya's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Caya mean?
The meaning of Caya is uncertain; it is likely a modern invented name or a variant of Kaya.
How popular is the name Caya currently?
Caya has not ranked in the top 1000 U.S. names in recent years. Its peak popularity was in 2004, when it was given to around 50 babies.
Is Caya a boy or girl name?
Caya is predominantly used as a girl's name.