Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Key

      Origin 
      English, Scandinavian

      Meaning 
      Key Means A Means of Access

      Variations 
      Keya, Keye, Keys

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Key has its origins in English and Scandinavian cultures, where it symbolizes 'a means of access.' This connotation underscores the literal function of a key as a tool that grants entry or reveals something previously inaccessible. Over time, the name has taken on various interpretations, often resonating with themes of opportunity, discovery, and unlocking potential.

      Historically, the concept of keys has been integral to various societies, serving both practical and metaphorical roles. In medieval times, keys were highly valued symbols of trust and authority, often entrusted to individuals who held positions of power. The word 'key' can also be traced back to Old Norse, reinforcing its Scandinavian roots. In literature and folklore, keys frequently represent knowledge or secrets, emphasizing their importance across different cultures and epochs.

      In contemporary times, the name Key continues to be used, sometimes as a surname and occasionally as a first name. It can also appear in various contexts, such as technology (e.g., encryption keys), real estate (e.g., keys to a new home), and personal development (e.g., keys to success). The symbolism of access and opportunity remains relevant, making Key a powerful term in both personal and professional arenas.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Key.
      Compton

      is the most common surname for Key.

      Mary

      is the most common spouse name for Key.

      John

      is the most common child name for Key.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1892 is when there were the most people born with the first name Key.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.