Skyler is a modern unisex given name, predominantly used in English-speaking countries. It is a variant of the Dutch surname Schuyler, which itself derives from a Dutch word meaning "scholar" or "student." The spelling "Skyler" emerged in the United States during the 1980s, based on the pronunciation of the surname but respelled as if it were a blend of the English word sky with popular names such as Tyler. Before 1980, the name was rare; it first gained popularity as a name for boys and is now more common for girls, although it remains more evenly unisex than its mostly feminine variant Skylar (or sometimes spelled Skylar). Etymology and Historical Context The original surname Schuyler was brought to America by 17th-century Dutch settlers who arrived in what is now New York. By the 19th century, the surname had entered use as a given name, partly in honor of members of the prominent New York Schuyler family, including Philip Schuyler, a Revolutionary War general. The Anglicized spelling Skyler (and Skylar) first appeared in the 1980s, coinciding with a broader trend of surnames converted into first names and names with an appealing, modern sound. Notable Bearers and Cultural Significance Among notable women named Skyler (or Skylar) are American basketball player Skylar Diggins-Smith (born 1990), Canadian curler Skylar Ackerman (born 2001), and American ballerina Skylar Brandt (born 1993), a principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre. Other contemporary figures include actress Skyler Day (born 1991) and Paralympic rower Skylar Dahl (born 2003). The name gained widespread recognition in the 2000s through the character Skyler White on the TV series Breaking Bad (played by Anna Gunn), which may have further boosted its use for girls. Though originally male, Skyler has undergone a shift typical of many modern unisex names; it is now used predominantly for girls, while the more original Schuyler remains rare and mostly male. The variant Skylar is also widespread and frequently given to girls, occasionally ranking higher on charts for female newborns. Related Names and Variations Besides Skylar, other related forms include Skyla, a modern feminization derived by analogy with names like Kayla, and the original Schuyler, which is now uncommon as a first name but retains historical significance as a surname of influential American families. Usage and Distribution Skyler entered the U.S. baby name charts in the 1980s and peaked in popularity for girls around the 2010s, when it ranked within the top 200 names. For boys, its use has declined since the late 1990s, though it remains clearly unisex. Outside the United States, the name is found in other English-speaking countries but is most prevalent in North America. Key Facts Meaning: "scholar" or "student" (from Dutch schuyler) Origin: Anglicized form of Dutch surname Schuyler Type: Modern respelled variant Gender: Unisex, currently more common for girls Usage Regions: United States, Canada, other English-speaking countries Related Names: Skylar, Skyla, Schuyler