Origin of the Name Kelly

Choosing a name for your child is an important decision that requires careful consideration. One name that has gained popularity over the years is Kelly. This unisex name has Irish origins and has several meanings. In this article, we will explore the history and significance of the name Kelly.

The name Kelly is derived from the Irish surname O'Ceallaigh, which means 'descendant of Ceallach'. Ceallach is an Irish name that means 'bright-headed' or 'war-like'. The name Kelly was originally a male name, but it has become a popular unisex name in recent years.

Kelly has been a popular name in Ireland for centuries. It gained popularity in the United States in the 1950s and 1960s, and it has remained a popular name for both boys and girls. In 2019, Kelly was ranked as the 261st most popular name for girls and the 1,043rd most popular name for boys in the United States.

The name Kelly has been popularized by several famous people. Some of the most notable include: - Kelly Clarkson: American singer and winner of the first season of American Idol. - Kelly Ripa: American actress and television host. - Kelly Slater: American professional surfer. - Kelly Rowland: American singer and former member of Destiny's Child. - Grace Kelly: American actress and Princess of Monaco. These famous people have helped to make the name Kelly a household name.

The name Kelly has several meanings, including: - Warrior: The name Ceallach, from which Kelly is derived, means 'war-like'. This gives the name Kelly a strong and powerful connotation. - Bright-headed: Ceallach also means 'bright-headed', which could be interpreted as having a positive and optimistic outlook on life. - Descendant of Ceallach: The name Kelly is derived from the Irish surname O'Ceallaigh, which means 'descendant of Ceallach'. This gives the name Kelly a sense of heritage and tradition. Overall, the name Kelly has a variety of meanings that can be interpreted in different ways.

There are several variations of the name Kelly, including: - Kellie: This is a common variation of the name Kelly that is often used for girls. - Kelley: This is another variation of the name Kelly that is often used for girls. - Kellan: This is a variation of the name Kelly that is often used for boys. - Kelton: This is another variation of the name Kelly that is often used for boys. These variations give parents more options when choosing a name for their child.

The name Kelly is a popular unisex name with Irish origins. It has several meanings and has been popularized by famous people with the name. Whether you choose to name your child Kelly or one of its variations, it is a name with a rich history and significance.