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Klay

Boy name · 57 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Klay: 57 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 10 births in 2017.

Klay is a modern phonetic respelling of the English Clay, which itself derives from the Old English *clæg* meaning simply "clay," likely given as a surname for someone who worked with the material or lived near a clay pit. The spelling with a K gives it a sleek, contemporary feel, popularised in part by the influential American rapper and record producer Klay (often known as Klay from the duo The Cool Kids). Beyond music, the name shares its root with no major place connections, though it echoes the earthy simplicity of place names like Claygate in Surrey. A notable variant is the more traditional Clay, which has been a steady if uncommon choice, while Klay offers a fresh, preppy twist—a name that feels at once grounded and modern.