Keir

Meaning & origin

Keir is a Scottish name with an uncertain etymology, possibly meaning 'dark' or 'swarthy' from Gaelic. It first appeared in U.S. records in 1963, with a peak in popularity during the 1970s (ranked 9714th in 2025). The name has been on a downward trajectory since 2022, with 1 in 244,011 boys being named Keir in the most recent year. While it is not among the most common names, its strong Scottish heritage and concise sound appeal to parents seeking a distinctive yet traditional name. The name's trajectory has seen a recent decline after a small revival, but it remains a recognizable choice, particularly in areas with Scottish ancestry.

Keir is a Scottish name whose exact derivation is debated. It may be a variant of the Gaelic name Ciaran, which means 'little dark one,' or it could be a transferred use of the Scottish surname Keir, which itself may be from a place name or a Gaelic word meaning 'dusky' or 'dark.' The name has been used in Scotland for centuries but gained wider notice in the 20th century, especially outside Scotland.