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

Popularity of Keyon by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Keyon is more commonly used as a male name, with approximately 98% of people named Keyon being male.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 76 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Keyon.

The history of the first name Keyon

The name Keyon is believed to have its origins in the African language of Yoruba, spoken in parts of West Africa, particularly Nigeria. The Yoruba word "Keyon" is thought to derive from the phrase "Ki o ní ìyè," which translates to "may you have peace" or "may you find peace." This suggests that the name was likely given to newborns as a wish or blessing for a peaceful and tranquil life.

While the exact time period when the name first emerged is uncertain, it is believed to have been in use among the Yoruba people for centuries, possibly dating back to the 15th or 16th century. The name's association with peace and tranquility aligns with the cultural values and traditions of the Yoruba, who have a rich history and strong emphasis on spiritual beliefs and practices.

Historical records and ancient texts mentioning the name Keyon are scarce, as written documentation from the Yoruba culture during that era is limited. However, there are a few notable individuals throughout history who bore this name.

One of the earliest recorded individuals with the name Keyon was Keyon Babatunde, a respected Yoruba scholar and philosopher who lived in the late 17th century. He is known for his writings and teachings on traditional Yoruba wisdom and spirituality.

In the 19th century, Keyon Adebayo was a prominent Yoruba chief and leader who played a significant role in the resistance against colonial rule in present-day Nigeria. His bravery and leadership during this period earned him a place in the history of the Yoruba people.

Fast forward to the 20th century, Keyon Oladimeji was a Nigerian artist and painter who gained recognition for his vibrant depictions of Yoruba culture and traditions. His works are celebrated for capturing the essence of Yoruba life and have been exhibited in various galleries and museums.

Another notable figure with the name Keyon was Keyon Akinwande, a Nigerian-American writer and journalist born in 1955. He is known for his insightful writings on African culture, politics, and the African diaspora experience.

More recently, Keyon Dooling, born in 1980, is a retired American professional basketball player who played in the NBA for several teams, including the Los Angeles Clippers and Boston Celtics.

These are just a few examples of individuals throughout history who carried the name Keyon, each leaving their mark in various fields and cultures. While the name may not be as widely known or popular as some others, its origins and meaning reflect a rich cultural heritage and a wish for peace and tranquility.

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 Keyon was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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