Spotlight on Skylar: This baby name’s popularity, history & more
One name that has captured the attention of many parents is Skylar. This modern, versatile name has gained considerable traction, especially among girls, but its popularity for boys has seen some ups and downs.
In this guide, we’ll take a close look at this baby name, exploring its origins, meanings, variations, and how it has fared in popularity over the years.
The origin and meaning of Skyler
The name Skylar has Dutch roots, originating as a variant of the name “Schuyler.” In Holland, Schuyler was originally a surname that means “scholar” or “protection.”
The Americanized version, Skylar, has transcended its geographical origins to become a common first name in the United States and other English-speaking countries. It’s a unisex name, but it has become increasingly popular for girls in recent years.
Popularity trends for boys & girls
The name Skylar has seen different trends in popularity for girls and boys in the United States. For girls, it reached its peak in 2018, ranking 50th, and has since experienced a moderate decline to 87th as of 2022. Despite this dip, it remains a popular choice for girls.
On the other hand, the name experienced more significant fluctuations for boys, peaking at 634th in 2014. After that, it saw a steady decline, eventually falling off the Social Security Administration’s top 1000 list after 2019. Overall, Skylar has maintained its status as a trendy name for girls, while its popularity for boys has waned in recent years.
Famous Skylars
The name Skylar has also gained visibility through various celebrities and fictional characters, lending it some star power:
- Skylar Astin: An American actor and singer known for his roles in “Pitch Perfect” and the TV series “Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist.”
- Skylar Grey: An American singer-songwriter who gained prominence for her work in the rap and pop genres. She’s known for co-writing the Eminem and Rihanna hit “Love the Way You Lie.”
- Skylar Diggins-Smith: An American professional basketball player who plays for the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA.
- Skylar, a character in “Breaking Bad”: The name also appears in the critically acclaimed TV series, where Skylar White is a central character.
Variations and alternative spellings
While “Skylar” is the most common spelling, you might also consider “Skyler,” “Skylor,” or the traditional “Schuyler” as an alternative. The name has seen several creative spellings like “Skilar,” “Skylaar,” and “Skyllar,” although these are less traditional.
Looking for something a tiny bit shorter? Skyla is one variation of the name Skylar. It’s often considered a more feminine take on the name, with the “a” at the end giving it a softer sound. If you’re considering Skylar but want something slightly different, Skyla could be a viable option.
Names with a similar vibe
If you’re fond of Skylar but want to explore other options, you might consider names like Taylor, Spencer, or Harper. These names also have a modern feel and work well for both boys and girls.
A name that offers flexibility
Skylar provides the best of both worlds: it’s trendy yet not overly common, and it works well for both genders. Its various spellings and gender-neutral appeal make it a versatile choice for any child.
