Kelly

What does the baby name Kelly mean? Learn about what Kelly means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Kelly - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Kelly: K-E-L-L-Y, is a 5-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Kelly: KEL-ee; KEL lee
Meaning of Kelly: Warrior, bright-headed, intelligent and bright, war, strife, defender.
Origin of Kelly: The name 'Kelly' has Irish origins. It is derived from the Irish surname Ó Ceallaigh, which means 'descendant of Ceallach'. Ceallach is an Irish given name that is believed to come from the Gaelic word 'ceall', meaning 'church' or 'monastery'. The name 'Kelly' can also be traced back to the Old Irish word 'coileach', which means 'rooster'.; American Names; Celebrity Names; Celtic Names; Color Names; Gaelic Names; Irish Names; Surname Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Kelly: Kealey; Keeley; Keiley; Keily; Kelley; Kellie; Kellina; Kelsey; Kelson; Kylie
Popularity of Kelly: The name 'Kelly' gained popularity as a given name for boys in the mid-20th century. It was particularly popular in Ireland and other English-speaking countries. However, in recent years, its usage as a masculine name has declined, and it is now more commonly used as a feminine name.; Kelly currently has 116 likes, and is in the top 4% of liked boy's names. The name Adnan is slightly more popular than Kelly.

Etymology of Kelly

The etymology of the name 'Kelly' can be traced back to the Irish language. As mentioned earlier, it is derived from the Irish surname Ó Ceallaigh, which means 'descendant of Ceallach'. The name Ceallach is believed to come from the Gaelic word 'ceall', meaning 'church' or 'monastery'. It is also connected to the Old Irish word 'coileach', which means 'rooster'.

Cultural Significance of Kelly

In Irish culture, the name 'Kelly' holds significance as a surname. The Ó Ceallaigh clan was a prominent Gaelic Irish family that held power and influence in medieval Ireland. The name is associated with a rich history and heritage, representing a connection to Irish ancestry and traditions.