Khaleesi is a Dothraki word meaning the wife of the khal in George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series (better known to some as HBO’s Game of Thrones). It’s also a baby name that’s rising in popularity in the U.S.

Last year, 146 girls were named Khaleesi. That’s 450% more girls than were named Khaleesi in 2011. Before that, well, nobody was really named Khaleesi.

And it’s almost guaranteed that most mothers are pronouncing it wrong. You probably are too. According to the guy who created the Dothraki language for the series, most people pronounce it “ka-LEE-see,” when it should be pronounced “KHAH-lay-see.”

But either way, power to them. Khaleesi is the mother of dragons for pete’s sake. She’s Daenerys Targaryen. She’s Dany. You know, Daenerys wouldn’t be a bad name for your little girl either…

Game of Thrones has been a huge success for HBO – both in official viewership and in terms of other types of viewership. It’s garnered a massive following on the internet, and Dany is one of the most popular character on the show.

All I’m saying is that this should surprise nobody.

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At least it’s not North West.

[The Baby Name Wizard Blog via The Mary Sue]