Kyle

boyScottish Gaelic

Kyle is a boy name of Scottish Gaelic origin, meaning “Narrow strait, channel”.

MeaningNarrow strait, channel
GenderBoy
OriginScottish Gaelic
PronunciationKYLE
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inScotland, United States, Australia, Canada

Meaning and origin of Kyle

Kyle comes from the Scottish Gaelic caol, 'narrow' or 'strait', a word that appears in many Highland place names such as the Kyle of Lochalsh. It was also the name of a district of Ayrshire, and became a surname before turning into a first name. Kyle was hugely popular in Scotland, England, the United States and Australia from the 1970s to the 1990s, and is also occasionally given to girls.

Is Kyle a religious name?

Kyle is a place-name based name with no religious background; it is used by families of any faith.

How popular is Kyle?

Familiar throughout the English-speaking world, though less common for newborns than at its 1990s peak.

Gifts with the name Kyle

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Spellings and variants of Kyle

KileKyla

Names similar to Kyle

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Kyle mean?

Kyle means 'Narrow strait, channel'. It is of Scottish Gaelic origin.

Does Kyle have a religious meaning?

Kyle is a place-name based name with no religious background; it is used by families of any faith.

How do you pronounce Kyle?

Kyle is pronounced KYLE.

Is Kyle a boy or girl name?

Kyle is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.