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What Does the First Name Kelly Mean?

Introduction

Choosing a name for your child is an important decision. It is a name that will stay with them for the rest of their life and will shape their identity. The name Kelly is a popular choice for both boys and girls, and it has a rich history and meaning. In this article, we will explore the origin and meaning of the name Kelly, as well as its popularity and famous bearers.

Origin of the Name Kelly

The name Kelly is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic language. It is a unisex name, which means it can be used for both boys and girls. The name Kelly comes from the Irish surname O'Ceallaigh, which means 'descendant of Ceallach'. Ceallach was a popular Irish name that means 'bright-headed'. The name Kelly was originally used as a surname, but it has since become a popular first name.

Meaning of the Name Kelly

The name Kelly has several meanings, depending on the interpretation. One meaning is 'warrior' or 'fighter', which comes from the Irish word 'ceallach'. Another meaning is 'bright-headed', which comes from the original Irish name Ceallach. The name Kelly can also mean 'descendant of Ceallach', which refers to the original Irish surname. Overall, the name Kelly has a strong and powerful meaning.

Popularity of the Name Kelly

The name Kelly has been a popular choice for both boys and girls for many years. It first became popular in the United States in the 1950s and 1960s, and it has remained a popular choice ever since. In 2020, the name Kelly was ranked as the 621st most popular name for boys and the 1,049th most popular name for girls in the United States. The name Kelly is also popular in other countries, such as Ireland, Canada, and Australia.

Famous Bearers of the Name Kelly

The name Kelly has been used by many famous people throughout history. Some of the most notable bearers of the name Kelly include: - Grace Kelly: American actress and Princess of Monaco - Kelly Clarkson: American singer and songwriter - Kelly Ripa: American television host and actress - Kelly Slater: American surfer - Kelly Osbourne: British television personality and singer These famous bearers of the name Kelly have helped to make it a popular and well-known name around the world.

Conclusion

The name Kelly is a popular choice for both boys and girls, and it has a rich history and meaning. It is a unisex name that originated in Ireland and has become popular worldwide. The name Kelly has several meanings, including 'warrior', 'bright-headed', and 'descendant of Ceallach'. It has been used by many famous people throughout history, including Grace Kelly, Kelly Clarkson, and Kelly Ripa. If you are considering the name Kelly for your child, you can be sure that it is a strong and powerful name with a rich history and meaning.