Cai
/kaɪ/noun
A masculine given name, especially the Welsh form associated with the Arthurian knight Sir Kay.
Did you know?In Welsh Arthurian tradition, Cai is portrayed as a powerful warrior and Arthur’s foster-brother, corresponding broadly to Sir Kay in later English romances.
Etymological Timeline
Roman Antiquity
Latin
Gaius / Caius
“A Roman personal name; its ultimate etymology is uncertain.”
Early Medieval Period
Welsh
Cai
“A Welsh personal name appearing in Arthurian tradition.”
9th–10th Century
Welsh
Cai Hir
““Cai the Long,” an Arthurian warrior epithet in Welsh tradition.”
12th Century
Old French
Keu / Queu
“The Arthurian seneschal and warrior, adapted from the Welsh Cai.”
12th–15th Century
Middle English
Kay
“The English literary form of Arthur’s companion.”
Modern English
English
Cai
“A masculine given name, particularly associated with Welsh usage.”