Holding steady.
Popularity of Keva since 1954
Babies named Keva per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1950s | 41 |
| 1960s | 154 |
| 1970s | 363 |
| 1980s | 264 |
| 1990s | 149 |
| 2000s | 100 |
| 2010s | 138 |
| 2020s | 49 |
Meaning & origin
Keva is a rare feminine name in the United States, first recorded in 1954. Its peak was in 1974, and it has shown a stable usage pattern since then, never reaching the top 1,000. The name's trajectory suggests it has remained a low-frequency choice, likely appealing to parents seeking an Irish-inflected or modern short name. It has not been concentrated in any particular state, indicating scattered use. While its etymology is debated between a genuine Gaelic root and a modern coinage, Keva offers a simple, melodic sound that fits alongside more common Irish names like Maeve and Liam.
Keva may be an Anglicized form of the Irish name Caoimhe (pronounced KEE-va or KWEE-va), derived from the Gaelic word caomh meaning 'gentle' or 'beautiful'. It could also be a modern invention, combining popular sounds like 'K' and 'va' to create a short, feminine name. The name first appeared in U.S. records in 1954 and saw modest use in the 1970s, peaking in 1974. Its usage has remained stable at low levels into the 2020s.
Nicknames & variants
Sibling names for Keva
Names that share Keva's style, for a brother or sister.
