Keith

Origin

Derived from the Scottish Gaelic name 'Ciothach', which means 'wood, forest'. The name Keith was used as a surname and later adopted as a given name. In historical texts, Keith appears in medieval Scottish clans and was popularised in Australia through Scottish immigrants and colonial influences.

Meaning

Literal translation relates to 'forest' or 'woodland'. In Australian English contexts, it connotes strength, resilience, and a connection to nature, reflecting the natural landscapes of Australia.

Pronunciation

/kiːð/ (kee-eth) — with the 'th' as in 'this', typical Australian pronunciation, with emphasis on the first syllable due to Stressed syllable rules in Australian English.

Variants & Nicknames

Name Days

• 26 August (Memorial of Saint Keith)
• 30 July (likely associated with Saint Peter in some traditions, but not specifically with Keith) in broader Christian calendars; however, in Australia, no specific national or religious name day is widely observed for Keith.
• No notable Indigenous or Māori celebrations directly associated with the name Keith.

Name Pairings

Names that pair well with keith:

• James and Keith
• Alice and Keith
• Charlie and Keith

Fun Facts

• The name Keith became popular in Australia post-World War II due to Scottish migration.
• Australian rock band C.B. Goodman & The Keiths gained local popularity in the 1960s.
• Famous Australian athlete Sir Keith Miller was a renowned cricketer and wartime hero.

Personality Traits

Common traits associated with the name keith:

• Dependable
• Resilient
• Traditional
• Nature-loving

Aesthetic Qualities

The name has a straightforward, timeless typographic appeal, with crisp, clean lines—fitting well in both formal documents and casual contexts in Australia.

Geographical Distribution

More common in South Australia and Queensland, particularly among families with Scottish heritage. Less frequent in urban areas with diverse immigrant backgrounds.

Numerological Significance

Name number 8 (based on numerology), associated with leadership, authority, and success, aligning with the strength implied by the name's meaning and cultural connotations.

Astrological Connections

No direct astrological associations, but individuals named Keith might be linked to the zodiac signs Leo and Aries in astrological traditions, symbolising strength and leadership.

Historical Context

Keith has historical connections with Scottish clans, notably Clan Keith, and was carried by several Australian settlers, explorers, and public figures like Sir Keith Miller. The name features in Australian literature and media, often associated with dependable, outdoorsy characters.

Linguistic Adaptability

The name Keith maintains its form across many languages with minor variations, mostly phonetic adaptations in non-English speaking countries. In Māori and Aboriginal contexts, it is not a traditional name and is generally considered a Western import.

Famous People Named keith

• Sir Keith Miller (Cricketer and War Hero)
• Keith Urban (Australian-American country singer)
• Keith Urban (musician)

Popularity in Australia