Kate
Meaning: A polished gem of a name, bright and clear — the name Kate embodies this quality
Origin: English
Gender: Girl
Rank in Ireland: #36
Total births: 10,278
History: Kate has long been a favourite in Ireland, from the traditional 'Kate Kearney's Cottage' at the Gap of Dunloe in Kerry to Kate O'Brien, the Limerick novelist who broke literary ground. The name suits both the wilds of the Atlantic Way and the cafes of Temple Bar.
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Look at the data
Every number here comes directly from Ireland’s birth records. No estimates, no averages — just the counts.
| Current rank (2025) | #52 |
| Babies named Kate in 2025 | 94 |
| Total recorded in Ireland | 10,278 |
| Peak year | 2007 (426 babies) |
| Highest rank ever | #10 |
| Years in records | 1964–2025 (58 years of data) |
| Change over last 5 years | ↓ 29 spots |
Frequently asked about Kate
What does the name Kate mean?
Kate means “A polished gem of a name, bright and clear — the name Kate embodies this quality” from English roots.
What is the origin of the name Kate?
Kate has English origin. The traditional meaning is “A polished gem of a name, bright and clear — the name Kate embodies this quality”.
How popular is Kate in Ireland?
Kate ranked #52 in Ireland in 2025 — given to 94 babies that year.
When was Kate most popular?
Kate peaked in 2007 with 426 babies registered that year in Ireland.
Is Kate a boy or girl name?
Kate is predominantly a girls' name in Ireland — over 90% of Kates in registered births are female.
Is the name Kate rising or falling in popularity?
Kate has fallen 29 spots in the rankings over the last 5 years in Ireland — from #23 in 2020 to #52 in 2025.
How long has Kate been recorded in Ireland?
Kate appears in birth records in Ireland across 58 years — from 1964 through 2025.