Chey: a unisex name of Native American (Siouan, Dakota-lakota) origin meaning "This name means “little Shahi, little Cree".It derives from the Native American (Siouan, Dakota-lakota) word "šahíya > šahíyena".
The name Chey carries a rich history rooted in Native American (Siouan, Dakota-lakota) culture. Derived from "šahíya > šahíyena", this both name embodies the essence of This name means “little Shahi, little Cree. Its linguistic journey through centuries reflects the cultural values and traditions of Native American (Siouan, Dakota-lakota)-speaking communities.
Quick Facts About Chey
Quick facts about Chey
Origin
Native American (Siouan, Dakota-lakota)
Gender
Unisex
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name means “little Shahi, little Cree.” The name comes into English in the form “Chaiena,” a direct rendering of Siouan Dakota (dialect) Šahíyena (1890), corresponding to Lakota (dialect) Šahíyela. It is the usual diminutive of Šahíya, the name of the Cree. So the Cheyenne is called the “little cree” (by the Sioux). The Cree are one of the largest groups of first nations / Native Americans in North America, with over 200,000 members living in Canada. In the United States, this Algonquian-speaking people historically lived from superior lake westward. Today, they live mostly in Montana, where they share a reservation with the Ojibwe (Chippewa).
Etymology & Details
Name Root
šahíya > šahíyena
How to Pronounce Chey
Chey is pronounced /tʃeɪ/
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Che-y
Say it like: "TSHEEEH"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
Usage & Popularity
This name has found popularity across english, and native american speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.
englishnative american
Frequently Asked Questions About Chey
What does the name Chey mean?
Chey means "This name means “little Shahi, little Cree.” The name comes into English in the form “Chaiena,” a direct rendering of Siouan Dakota (dialect) Šahíyena (1890), corresponding to Lakota (dialect) Šahíyela. It is the usual diminutive of Šahíya, the name of the Cree. So the Cheyenne is called the “little cree” (by the Sioux). The Cree are one of the largest groups of first nations / Native Americans in North America, with over 200,000 members living in Canada. In the United States, this Algonquian-speaking people historically lived from superior lake westward. Today, they live mostly in Montana, where they share a reservation with the Ojibwe (Chippewa).". The name comes from šahíya > šahíyena. This native american (siouan, dakota-lakota) name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Chey for children of any gender often connect with the name's meaning of "This name means “little Shahi, little Cree.” The name comes into English in the form “Chaiena,” a direct rendering of Siouan Dakota (dialect) Šahíyena (1890), corresponding to Lakota (dialect) Šahíyela. It is the usual diminutive of Šahíya, the name of the Cree. So the Cheyenne is called the “little cree” (by the Sioux). The Cree are one of the largest groups of first nations / Native Americans in North America, with over 200,000 members living in Canada. In the United States, this Algonquian-speaking people historically lived from superior lake westward. Today, they live mostly in Montana, where they share a reservation with the Ojibwe (Chippewa)." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Chey's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Chey?
Chey is a native american (siouan, dakota-lakota) name. The name traces back to šahíya > šahíyena. From its native american (siouan, dakota-lakota) roots, Chey spread to become common in english, native american. The native american (siouan, dakota-lakota) meaning "This name means “little Shahi, little Cree.” The name comes into English in the form “Chaiena,” a direct rendering of Siouan Dakota (dialect) Šahíyena (1890), corresponding to Lakota (dialect) Šahíyela. It is the usual diminutive of Šahíya, the name of the Cree. So the Cheyenne is called the “little cree” (by the Sioux). The Cree are one of the largest groups of first nations / Native Americans in North America, with over 200,000 members living in Canada. In the United States, this Algonquian-speaking people historically lived from superior lake westward. Today, they live mostly in Montana, where they share a reservation with the Ojibwe (Chippewa)." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Chey a boy or girl name?
Chey is a unisex name, given to both boys and girls. Unisex names have grown more popular since the 1990s, with parents choosing them for flexibility and modern appeal. Chey works equally well for any child, letting the person's identity shape how the name feels rather than the other way around. In native american (siouan, dakota-lakota) tradition, Chey has historically been given to children of either gender. The meaning "This name means “little Shahi, little Cree.” The name comes into English in the form “Chaiena,” a direct rendering of Siouan Dakota (dialect) Šahíyena (1890), corresponding to Lakota (dialect) Šahíyela. It is the usual diminutive of Šahíya, the name of the Cree. So the Cheyenne is called the “little cree” (by the Sioux). The Cree are one of the largest groups of first nations / Native Americans in North America, with over 200,000 members living in Canada. In the United States, this Algonquian-speaking people historically lived from superior lake westward. Today, they live mostly in Montana, where they share a reservation with the Ojibwe (Chippewa)." carries well for any child, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Chey?
Chey is pronounced "/tʃeɪ/". This pronunciation follows na language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Chey is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, native american, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with native american (siouan, dakota-lakota) names, listening to a native speaker say Chey can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
What are common nicknames for Chey?
Chey is commonly used as a nickname for Cheyenne. Being a shortened version of Cheyenne, Chey offers a casual alternative that's quicker to say in everyday conversation. Many people named Cheyenne go by Chey throughout their lives, using the full name only on official documents. In native american (siouan, dakota-lakota) cultures, using Chey as a nickname carries a sense of familiarity and warmth. This nickname pattern is common among people of any gender, though some now use Chey as a given name on its own. Today, parents sometimes put Chey on the birth certificate directly, skipping the longer form entirely. This gives the child a name that feels both complete and approachable.
How popular is the name Chey?
Chey is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Chey offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Chey's popularity may vary between native american (siouan, dakota-lakota) communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name means “little Shahi, little Cree.” The name comes into English in the form “Chaiena,” a direct rendering of Siouan Dakota (dialect) Šahíyena (1890), corresponding to Lakota (dialect) Šahíyela. It is the usual diminutive of Šahíya, the name of the Cree. So the Cheyenne is called the “little cree” (by the Sioux). The Cree are one of the largest groups of first nations / Native Americans in North America, with over 200,000 members living in Canada. In the United States, this Algonquian-speaking people historically lived from superior lake westward. Today, they live mostly in Montana, where they share a reservation with the Ojibwe (Chippewa)." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among unisex names, Chey holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Chey commonly used?
Chey is common in english and native american naming traditions. Though native american (siouan, dakota-lakota) in origin, Chey found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name means “little Shahi, little Cree.” The name comes into English in the form “Chaiena,” a direct rendering of Siouan Dakota (dialect) Šahíyena (1890), corresponding to Lakota (dialect) Šahíyela. It is the usual diminutive of Šahíya, the name of the Cree. So the Cheyenne is called the “little cree” (by the Sioux). The Cree are one of the largest groups of first nations / Native Americans in North America, with over 200,000 members living in Canada. In the United States, this Algonquian-speaking people historically lived from superior lake westward. Today, they live mostly in Montana, where they share a reservation with the Ojibwe (Chippewa)." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Chey into their naming traditions. A child named Chey will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Chey is given to children of any gender, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.