Looking for the perfect girl name starting with K? Here’s a quick guide to 10 modern favorites that balance style with meaningful origins. Whether you’re drawn to trendy picks like Khloe or names with cultural roots like Kamila, this list offers plenty of options for today’s parents.
- Kinsley: Meaning "king’s meadow", it’s a modern, regal choice. Ranked #85 in 2024.
- Kylie: With roots in Aboriginal and Gaelic traditions, it peaked in the early 2000s. Currently at #276.
- Khloe: A trendy take on the classic Chloe, tied to themes of growth and renewal. Ranked #20 in 2026.
- Kehlani: Hawaiian for "heavenly sea", it’s lyrical and rising in popularity (#150 in 2024).
- Kamila: Arabic for "perfect" and linked to Latin Camilla. A cross-cultural favorite (#292 in 2024).
- Keira: Irish for "dark-haired", it gained fame through actress Keira Knightley. Ranked #609 in 2024.
- Kiara: Meaning "bright" or "dark", its popularity surged with Disney’s The Lion King II. Ranked #238 in 2024.
- Kailani: Another Hawaiian gem meaning "sea and sky", it’s gaining traction (#275 in 2025).
- Kendra: A strong, classic name with Welsh origins, meaning "high" or "royal power." Ranked #902 in 2026.
- Karina: From Latin and Greek, meaning "beloved" or "pure." A timeless yet less common pick (#774 in 2024).
These names reflect a mix of modern trends, cultural significance, and timeless appeal. Whether you prefer a name with a nature-inspired vibe, a global touch, or a pop-culture edge, there’s something here for every taste.
Top 10 Modern Girl Names Starting with K: Rankings and Meanings
1. Kinsley
Meaning and Background
Kinsley traces its origins to Old English, blending cyne ("royal" or "king") with leah ("meadow" or "clearing"), creating the meaning "king's meadow". Initially used as a surname, Kinsley's historical roots evoke a sense of regal charm. It began gaining traction as a first name for girls in the late 20th century, combining its noble heritage with a contemporary twist.
Popularity Over Time
Kinsley made its debut on the US Top 1000 list in 2005 and climbed steadily, breaking into the Top 100 by 2016. It reached its highest rank at #57 in 2021. Currently, in 2024, it holds the #85 spot, with around 3,000 baby girls being named Kinsley each year. Celebrities have also embraced the name - Chance the Rapper and NHL player Ryan Kesler both chose Kinsley for their daughters. Nameberry's Sophie Kihm describes its appeal:
Light and glittery, but with plenty of spirit, Kinsley has risen quickly into the US Top 100.
Why It Stands Out
Kinsley strikes a balance between modern style and familiar sounds, making it an appealing choice for parents. Its two-syllable structure is reminiscent of names like Kelly or Kylie, while offering a fresh alternative to more traditional picks like Kaitlyn or Kimberly. The name is easy to spell and pronounce, adding to its accessibility. Abby Sandel of Appellation Mountain sums it up well:
It's a next-generation Ashley or Kimberly, a Top 100 favorite that will undoubtedly grow up and sound just right on women of accomplishment.
With 99.64% of its usage among girls, Kinsley has firmly established itself as a popular choice for daughters. Up next, explore another stylish K-name with its own distinct charm.
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2. Kylie
Meaning and Background
Kylie brings together a mix of origins that add depth to its charm. It’s believed to come from the Noongar Aboriginal word kiley, which translates to "boomerang" or "curved, returning stick". This connection to Australian heritage gained traction through novelist Kylie Tennant (1912–1988), who helped bring the name into everyday use.
The name also has roots in Gaelic and Irish traditions. It’s often seen as the feminine version of Kyle, derived from the Gaelic word caol, meaning "narrow strait." Alternatively, it’s linked to the Irish surname O'Kiely (O'Cadhla), which carries meanings like "graceful" or "beautiful".
Popularity Over Time
Kylie hit its peak in the early 2000s, climbing to #49 in the U.S. by 2004. Its rise to fame is often attributed to Australian pop icon Kylie Minogue in the 1980s and later to entrepreneur Kylie Jenner. However, the name has been slipping in popularity, dropping out of the U.S. top 100 in 2017. As of February 2026, Kylie ranks #276 in the U.S., down from #253 in 2025. In 2024, about 0.090% of baby girls were named Kylie. Variations like Kylee, Kyleigh, and Kiley are also popular among parents looking for a personalized touch.
Appeal and Versatility
Kylie strikes a great balance between being unique and easy to use. It’s rated "Very Easy" to pronounce and earns high marks for international friendliness, making it a name that works well across different cultures. Its two-syllable structure (/ˈkaɪliː/) is simple to say, and nicknames like Ky, Kiki, or Lee provide plenty of flexibility as your child grows.
While celebrity influence keeps Kylie in the spotlight, its decline from the top 100 gives it a refreshing sense of individuality.
3. Khloe
Meaning and Cultural Significance
The name Khloe originates from the ancient Greek word khlōē, which translates to "young green shoot" or "verdant and blooming". In Greek mythology, it was a nickname for Demeter, the goddess of agriculture, fertility, and the harvest. This ties Khloe to themes of springtime, renewal, and the natural cycle of growth. Additionally, Khloe has a biblical mention in 1 Corinthians 1:11, referencing the "House of Chloe". The modern "K" variation gained prominence thanks to Khloé Kardashian, who brought a contemporary twist to this classic name in 2007.
Modern Popularity and Trends
Khloe experienced a dramatic rise in popularity, jumping from rank #950 in 2006 to #42 by 2010, with a peak of approximately 5,406 births per million. After a dip to #232 in 2024, it climbed back to rank #20 by early 2026. Despite its fluctuations, the traditional "Chloe" spelling has consistently been about three times more popular as of 2018.
Uniqueness and Accessibility
Khloe offers a perfect mix of standing out while remaining approachable. The "K" spelling gives it a modern vibe, yet it retains its recognizable two-syllable pronunciation ("KLOH-ee"). This balance makes it an attractive choice for parents looking for a name that's fresh but easy to embrace.
Modern Khloe blends timeless grace with a trendy edge, reflecting both its ancient roots and current appeal.
The name also lends itself to various nicknames like Khlo, Koko, Kay, and KK, adding to its versatility. While its association with celebrity culture remains strong, Khloe's dip from peak popularity has given it a more distinctive and enduring charm. Up next, discover another striking K-name with a modern spin.
4. Kehlani
Meaning and Cultural Significance
Kehlani is a Hawaiian name that beautifully merges two elements: kai (meaning "sea") and lani (meaning "sky" or "heaven"). Together, they create a poetic meaning often interpreted as "heavenly sea" or "sea and sky". In Hawaiian traditions, the ocean holds deep spiritual importance, making this name especially resonant. The name gained wider recognition thanks to R&B artist Kehlani Parrish, who first gained fame on America's Got Talent in 2011.
Modern Popularity and Trends
Kehlani has seen a meteoric rise in recent years. It was the fastest-growing girls' name in the U.S. in 2016, debuting in the Top 1000 that year at #865. By 2024, it had surged to #150, accounting for 0.111% of baby girls born that year. The name has found particular favor in Mississippi, where it reached an impressive rank of #12. This surge aligns with the broader appeal of Hawaiian-inspired names featuring the "-lani" suffix, such as Leilani and Kailani.
Uniqueness and Accessibility
Kehlani strikes a balance between being distinctive yet easy to embrace. Its opening "Kelly" sound feels familiar, while the rhythmic, island-inspired ending adds a touch of charm. Pronounced keh-LAH-nee, with emphasis on the second syllable, it is straightforward to say and spell despite its Hawaiian roots. Parents also love its versatility, with nickname options like Lani, Keke, Kai, and Key.
"The name feels familiar yet fresh: the friendly 'Kelly' opening, the lilting island rhythm, and that final 'ni' that rings like a tiny bell." - Rachel Elizabeth Morgan, Assistant Editor, Name.baby
With its blend of celebrity influence, natural imagery, and lyrical sound, Kehlani carries a soulful quality that feels both modern and meaningful. Now, let’s explore another K-name with global appeal.
5. Kamila
Meaning and Cultural Significance
Kamila carries rich meanings across different traditions. In Arabic, it stems from the word kamal, which translates to "perfect" or "complete". Meanwhile, in Latin and Slavic contexts, it serves as a variant of Camilla, meaning "young ceremonial attendant" or "helper to the priest". The name also has ties to mythology through Camilla, the Queen of the Volsci in Virgil's Aeneid, who is celebrated as a powerful female mortal and a servant of the goddess Diana. In Hungary, Kamila is additionally linked to the chamomile flower, adding a botanical layer to its significance.
Modern Popularity and Trends
Kamila has steadily gained traction in the United States. Back in 2006, it ranked #866, but by 2024, it rose to #292, with projections suggesting it could reach #162 by 2028. The name enjoys particular popularity in Hawaii, where it ranks #27, and it also holds strong positions internationally - coming in at #95 in Poland and #86 in Czechia. This upward trend reflects a broader preference for modern "K" spellings, as seen with Camila, which ranks even higher at #18.
Uniqueness and Accessibility
Kamila strikes a balance between being distinctive and easy to embrace. Its three-syllable rhythm (ka-MEE-la) makes it simple to pronounce in multiple languages. The name resonates across English, Arabic, Polish, Czech, and Spanish-speaking communities, earning it top marks for global adaptability. Plus, parents love the variety of nicknames it offers - Mila, Kami, and Milly are all charming options.
"Its meaning, 'perfect,' makes it a name that sums up baby in one stylish word." - Emma Lawler, Senior Content Writer, The Bump
Kamila is carried by inspiring figures like Russian figure skater Kamila Valieva, the 2022 European Champion, and British-Pakistani novelist Kamila Shamsie, known for her acclaimed book Home Fire. With its multicultural roots, elegant sound, and contemporary edge, Kamila is a name that blends meaning and modern appeal effortlessly. Up next, a name with Celtic allure.
6. Keira
Meaning and Background
Keira is the Anglicized form of the Irish name Ciara, which comes from the Gaelic word ciar, meaning "dark" or "black." The name translates to "dark-haired", "dusky", or "little dark one." It also carries a historical connection to Saint Ciara, a 7th-century Irish abbess.
Modern Popularity
Keira became widely recognized, partly due to the fame of British actress Keira Knightley. In the U.S., the name hit its peak in 2006, ranking #110 with 3,022 babies named Keira that year. While its popularity has since declined to #609 by 2024, it continues to be a favorite in countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia.
Appeal and Usability
Keira strikes a balance between being distinctive and easy to use. Its phonetic simplicity (KEER-uh) makes it accessible for English speakers, while still reflecting its Irish roots. Nicknames like Kiki, Keir, and Ria add to its charm. The name also enjoys a presence in pop culture, with notable figures like soccer player Keira Walsh and the character Keira Metz from The Witcher series.
"Keira is an attractive girls' name that's gotten a huge boost from the meteoric rise of Keira Knightley." – Brynn McKeon, Nameberry
With its melodic sound and Irish heritage, Keira offers a timeless yet modern choice for parents. Coming up, discover another striking K-name with its own unique appeal.
7. Kiara
Meaning and Cultural Significance
The name Kiara carries a rich dual heritage. From the Italian Chiara, it translates to "bright, clear, or shining", while its Irish counterpart, Ciara, means "dark" or "dark-haired". Beyond these origins, it has been linked to meanings like "princess" and "first ray of the sun", as well as associations with purity, making it a name with global resonance. This layered history has helped establish Kiara as a contemporary and meaningful choice among K-names.
Modern Popularity and Trends
Kiara made its debut on U.S. baby name charts in 1988, skyrocketing 706 spots the following year to land at #115. Its popularity peaked in 1999 at #78, thanks in part to Disney's The Lion King II: Simba's Pride, where Princess Kiara was a central character. By 2024, the name ranked at #238 in the U.S. and climbed to #202 by early 2026.
The Netflix series Outer Banks has also brought renewed attention to the name through the character Kiara "Kie" Carrera, introducing it to a younger audience. Internationally, Kiara enjoys notable popularity in countries like New Zealand (#57), Croatia (#49), and Slovenia (#52).
Uniqueness and Accessibility
Kiara strikes a balance between being distinctive and approachable. While it has enjoyed widespread recognition, it has stayed outside the U.S. top 100 for over 20 years, making it a refreshing alternative to more common names. Its pronunciation - whether "kee-AR-uh" or "KEER-uh" - is simple and adaptable across languages.
"Sleek and confident, this name has a modern edge that feels perpetually current without being tied to any particular trend." – GirlNames.baby
Though often used as a standalone name, Kiara offers nickname possibilities like Kiki, Kia, or Ara for those who prefer a more casual option. Its concise, two-syllable structure adds to its punchy and memorable appeal. Up next, explore another K-name with a tropical twist.
8. Kailani
Meaning and Cultural Significance
Kailani combines the Hawaiian words for "ocean" and "sky", creating a name that beautifully reflects the natural wonders of Hawaii’s landscape. Translating to "sea and sky", it carries a poetic connection to nature. As a variant of Kalani, which means "heaven" or "royal one", Kailani has roots in Hawaiian traditions where names often held deep significance. Historically, it was associated with nobility, symbolizing the belief that royalty descended from the gods. Modern spelling variations include Kaylani, Kehlani, Khalani, and Keilani, giving the name a contemporary twist while honoring its origins.
Modern Popularity and Trends
Kailani first appeared on the U.S. baby name charts in 2013, starting at #965 and climbing to #275 within nine years. By 2025, it’s estimated that 1,133 babies per million in the U.S. will bear this name. It’s particularly favored in states like Hawaii, California, and Nevada, where its tropical charm resonates. Celebrity connections, such as figure skater Kailani Craine and the daughter of Ryan Phillippe and Alexis Knapp, have further elevated its profile. Beyond the U.S., Kailani has also gained traction internationally, ranking #117 in Mexico in 2021.
Uniqueness and Accessibility
Kailani offers a blend of elegance and approachability. Pronounced as "keh-lah-nee" or "kay-lah-nee", its three syllables make it easy to say and versatile for nicknames like Kai, Lani, Kaila, or Ani. While it’s growing in popularity, Kailani remains distinctive, sitting outside the top 200 names. It also aligns with the trend of girl names ending in vowels, particularly the melodic "-ani" suffix. For parents dreaming of a name that evokes serene beaches and endless skies, Kailani is a modern yet timeless choice.
Next up, discover a K-name with timeless strength.
9. Kendra
Meaning and Background
Kendra brings together influences from British and Celtic origins. It’s often considered a feminine form of Kendrick, which stems from the Old Welsh Cynwrig (meaning "high" or "exalted") and Old English Ceneric (interpreted as "keen power" or "royal power"). The name also connects to meanings like "summit" or "hill", evoking a sense of strength and elevation. Additionally, Kendra has links to the Scottish surname MacEanraig, which translates to "son of Henry". These layered meanings - from powerful leadership to a sense of prominence - make Kendra a name that radiates confidence and distinction.
Popularity Over Time
Kendra saw its peak in 1987, when it ranked #77 and was given to 3,841 baby girls, accounting for 0.205% of all births that year. Since then, its popularity has gradually waned, and by early 2026, it holds the #902 spot. Despite this decline, Kendra remains a name that’s both familiar and refreshingly uncommon. The success of entrepreneur Kendra Scott in the fashion world has also helped keep the name in public awareness.
Appeal and Ease of Use
"Kendra offers a familiar, distinct choice." - BabyNames.com
Kendra’s two-syllable structure and strong consonants make it easy to pronounce and spell, giving it a polished yet approachable feel. It’s predominantly used for girls (99.64% of the time), and unlike some K-names that might need clarification or alternate spellings, Kendra is straightforward. For added flexibility, it lends itself to nicknames like Ken or Kenna, though it also stands confidently on its own. For parents seeking a name that strikes the right balance between elegance and accessibility, Kendra is a standout choice.
Let’s continue exploring more modern K-names...
10. Karina
Meaning and Background
Karina is a name with deep roots and layered meanings across various cultures. Its Latin origin ties it to "carus", meaning "beloved," while its Greek connection comes from "katharos", meaning "pure". As an extended form of Karin - a derivative of Katherine - it blends a timeless charm with a contemporary feel.
The name's appeal spans a broad range of regions, including Scandinavia, Germany, Poland, Russia, Spain, and English-speaking countries. This global presence gives Karina a refined yet approachable aura. Its cultural resonance is further enhanced by literary and pop culture references, such as Leo Tolstoy’s Anna Karenina and professional dancer Karina Smirnoff.
Popularity Over Time
Karina reached its height of popularity in the United States in 1996, ranking at #108. By 2024, it had slipped to #774, with approximately 363 newborns receiving the name that year. While it has become less common in recent years, Karina still stands out as a distinctive choice.
The name enjoys particular popularity among Hispanic-American families and continues to thrive internationally. For instance, it ranks #97 in Estonia, #110 in Poland, and #193 in Mexico. In the U.S., the average age of a Karina is 25.85 years, with about 60,337 individuals sharing the name. This balance of familiarity and rarity makes it appealing for many parents.
Why Karina Stands Out
"Karina is a Scandinavian name that's a lovely form of Karen, meaning 'pure.' It carries a simple, elegant vibe perfect for a girl with a bright, fresh spirit." - BabyCenter
A key strength of Karina is its easy-to-pronounce nature (kuh-REE-nuh), making it adaptable across languages and cultures. Nearly all Karinas - 99.6% - are female, reinforcing its identity as a predominantly feminine name. Parents also love the flexibility it offers, with nicknames like Kari, Rina, Ina, and Kara adding a playful touch, while the full name retains its elegance. For families looking for a name that bridges international flair with ease of use, Karina is an excellent choice.
Next, take a closer look at the growing appeal of K-names and the trends shaping their popularity.
What Makes K-Names Popular Right Now
A mix of pop culture influence, diverse origins, and straightforward pronunciation is fueling the rise of K-names in the U.S. The Kardashian family, in particular, has played a big role in this trend. They've taken traditional names and given them a modern spin - like turning Chloe into the now-trendy Khloe. Pamela Redmond, founder of Nameberry, explains:
Baby girl names that start with K have been Kardashianized in recent years, with former C-starting names such as Chloe morphed into newly-trendy Khloe.
This celebrity influence has encouraged parents to embrace K-spellings as a fresh, contemporary twist. But it’s not just about pop culture. K-names also resonate because of their diverse roots. For example, Hawaiian-inspired names like Kehlani and Kailani bring a nature-infused charm, while surname-style picks like Kinsley and Kennedy appeal to those who prefer names with a gender-neutral vibe. These choices feel unique but still approachable, making them a hit with modern parents.
Recent statistics show just how much K-names are trending. In 2024, Kinsley ranked #68 with 2,929 births, Kennedy came in at #72 with 2,881 births, and Kehlani saw 1,967 births. Meanwhile, Kaia surged 719 spots to reach #186 in 2023, and Kaeli made a jaw-dropping leap of 1,692 positions in a single year. These numbers highlight a growing preference for names that are simple yet carry an exotic flair.
The appeal of K-names also lies in their balance of modernity and style. The strong "K" sound makes them stand out, while endings like "-i" or "-y" give them a lively, contemporary feel. This shift reflects a move away from mid-century staples like Karen and Kathleen toward fresher, more energetic options.
Adding to their charm is the multicultural richness of K-names. From Arabic names like Kamilah to Sanskrit and Scandinavian influences, these names provide meaningful options that honor global heritage while remaining easy to use in American culture. This combination of style, simplicity, and diverse origins continues to make K-names a popular choice among today's parents.
Conclusion
These K-names showcase a mix of modern style and meaningful roots, making them a popular choice for today's parents.
The 10 names - Kinsley, Kylie, Khloe, Kehlani, Kamila, Keira, Kiara, Kailani, Kendra, and Karina - each bring their own charm. From the Hawaiian-inspired beauty of Kehlani and Kailani to the timeless elegance of Keira and Karina, there's something for everyone. Khloe's trendy spelling nods to pop culture, while Kinsley adds a surname-style twist that's gaining traction.
These names fit seamlessly into diverse American settings, offering a balance between contemporary trends and meaningful origins. Whether it's the nature-inspired undertones, the strength they convey, or their melodic sounds, these names resonate with modern sensibilities.
Before settling on a name, try saying it out loud with your last name and think about possible nicknames. While some K-spellings might need occasional clarification, they often feel fresh and stand out in the best way.
With their blend of pleasing sounds and meaningful associations, these K-names are a solid choice for parents looking for something that feels modern yet grounded. Whether you're drawn to their cosmopolitan vibe or the stories behind them, this list offers plenty of inspiration.
FAQs
How do you pronounce Kehlani and Kailani?
Kehlani is typically pronounced as "keh-LAH-nee." On the other hand, Kailani can be pronounced in two ways: "kie-LAH-nee" or "kay-LAH-nee," depending on personal preference. Pronunciation may vary based on individual choices or regional influences.
Will a K-spelling like Khloe cause confusion?
A K-spelling like Khloe might cause a bit of confusion since it deviates from the more familiar Chloe. However, it’s often viewed as a modern, stylish variation that makes the name more distinctive. Opting for this version offers a fresh twist while keeping it easily recognizable.
Which K-names work best internationally?
Names starting with "K" that are easy to pronounce and have a broad global appeal often work well across different languages and cultures. For instance, Kira and Kaia are simple to spell and widely recognized. Another example is Kalea, which means "joy" in Hawaiian and carries a pleasant, melodic sound. These names stand out because they’re straightforward, adaptable, and not strongly associated with any single cultural background.
