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Caleigh

Girl name · 10 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Caleigh: 10 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 4 births in 2006.

Caleigh is a modern, Anglicised spelling of the Irish name Cáit, which itself is a diminutive of Caitlín, the Irish form of Catherine. Ultimately derived from the Greek *katharos*, meaning “pure,” it shares its root with the classic Katherine. While not as historically prominent as its parent name, Caleigh has been borne by contemporary figures such as Caleigh Ryan, an American actress known for her work in independent film. The name also echoes the Scottish Gaelic *cèilidh*, a traditional social gathering with music and dance, though it is not directly related. A popular variant, Kayleigh, was famously popularised by the 1980s Marillion song of the same name, giving Caleigh a melodic, modern feel that remains distinct from its longer forms.