Keighley

Meaning of Keighley

Keighley, as a feminine given name, derives from the West Yorkshire town of the same name, its Old English components—Cēahinga (the people of Cicca) and lēah (woodland clearing)—reflecting a blend of communal heritage and natural setting. Pronounced KEE-lee, it has appeared sporadically in U.S. birth records since 1989, with annual tallies ranging from five to twenty newborns—including nine in 2024 and a peak of twenty in 2023—placing it consistently outside the top 900. Its industrial legacy, rooted in the region’s textile mills, contrasts with the pastoral connotations of its etymology, creating a name that is both grounded and quietly distinctive. The steady yet selective usage pattern underscores its appeal to parents who prioritize geographical authenticity and individuality over fleeting popularity.

Pronunciation

English

  • Pronunced as KEE-lee (/ˈkiːli/)

U.S. Popularity Chart

Diana Michelle Redwood
Curated byDiana Michelle Redwood

Assistant Editor