Find out how popular the first name Kaya has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Kaya by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Kaya is more commonly used as a female name, with approximately 94% of people named Kaya being female.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 243 female babies and 18 male babies born with the name Kaya.

Yes—according to the SSA data, 18 baby boys were named Kaya in 2023, despite it being a predominantly female name. We'd love to know why!

The history of the first name Kaya

The name Kaya has its origins in various cultures and languages around the world. It is believed to be derived from the Sanskrit word "kaya," which means "body" or "physical form." This Sanskrit root can also be traced to the Thai language, where the name Kaya is a common feminine name meaning "free" or "without restraint."

In Japanese culture, the name Kaya is associated with the Japanese word "kayou," which means "to be fragrant" or "to emit a pleasant aroma." This connection possibly stems from the Japanese appreciation for nature and the beauty found in fragrances.

The name Kaya also has roots in Native American cultures. In the Lakota Sioux language, "Kaya" means "to go" or "to follow a path." This meaning resonates with the nomadic lifestyle and spiritual journeys of many Native American tribes.

Historically, the name Kaya can be found in ancient Sanskrit texts and Hindu scriptures, where it is often used as a term for the physical body or as a reference to the spiritual essence within. In Buddhist teachings, the concept of "kaya" is also mentioned, referring to the physical manifestation of enlightened beings.

One of the earliest recorded individuals with the name Kaya was Kaya Upanishad, an ancient Indian sage and philosopher who lived around the 6th century BCE. Her teachings and writings contributed to the development of Hindu philosophies and spiritual traditions.

In the realm of art and literature, Kaya Matissiere was a French painter and sculptor born in 1835. She was known for her vibrant portraits and her involvement in the Impressionist movement.

Kaya Fon Brunt, born in 1908, was a Swedish writer and journalist who gained recognition for her novels and short stories exploring themes of identity and societal norms.

In the field of music, Kaya Jones, born in 1984, is an American singer-songwriter and former member of the Pussycat Dolls pop group. Her solo work has explored various genres, including pop, rock, and country.

Another notable figure with the name Kaya was Kaya Muller, a German environmental activist and advocate for sustainable living. Born in 1960, she played a significant role in raising awareness about the impact of human activities on the planet.

These are just a few examples of individuals who have carried the name Kaya throughout history, each leaving their mark in their respective fields and contributing to the rich tapestry of cultural diversity and human experience.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Kaya was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Kaya, please contact us.

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