Kelly: Name Meaning, Origin, and Popularity

Pronunciation: ke-hlle-e
Origin: Ireland
gender-female

Emmy Samtani

Emmy Samtani

Emmy is the founder of Kiindred and mother to 3 little ones. Over the last 4 years, she has worked with some of the most credible experts in the parenting space and is a keen contributor on all things parenthood.
Updated on Apr 14, 2025 · 2 mins read
Region Origin: Europe
Meaning: Warrior

Kelly is a name with Irish, Gaelic, and Scottish origins, and it has several meanings, such as "warrior," "wood," and "bright-headed". Other less common meanings include "born on a farm" or "farm by the spring". Initially, Kelly was a masculine name but later became popular as a feminine name as well. The name Kelly is predominantly used as a girls' name, but there are variations like Kelli, Kellie, Kellye, and Kelleigh. In terms of cultural or historical significance, the name Kelly can be associated with the Irish clan name Ó Ceallaigh, which means "descendant of Ceallach". Clan Kelly is a Scottish clan, and the name Kelly could also be derived from Kelloe, a barony in the Home of Berwickshire. The name Kelly has a long history and has travelled through different countries, including Ireland, Scotland, Britain, and the rest of Europe. It first gained popularity as a masculine name at the end of the 19th century and later as a feminine name in the US during the 1940s.

Kelly Name Popularity Data

chat-overall Kelly is currently #459 in the popularity of the name rankings.
gender-female Girl: Kelly is currently #255 on Kiindred Girl Names
gender-male Overall Unique: Kelly is currently #453 on Kiindred Unique Names
gender-female Girl Unique: Kelly is currently #255 on Kiindred Girl Unique Names

Popularity Trend Chart

Famous People Named Kelly

This section lists notable individuals and public figures named Kelly, showcasing their achievements and contributions in various fields.

  • Kelly Clarkson: Kelly Clarkson is an American singer, songwriter, and television personality who rose to fame after winning the first season of "American Idol" and is known for hit songs like "Since U Been Gone" and "Stronger."
  • Kelly Ripa: Kelly Ripa is an American actress, dancer, talk show host, and television producer known for her role on "All My Children" and as the co-host of "Live! with Kelly and Ryan."
  • Kelly Osbourne: Kelly Osbourne is a British-American singer, actress, fashion designer, and television personality known for her appearances on "The Osbournes" and "Fashion Police."
  • Kelly Rowland: Kelly Rowland is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and television personality known for being a member of Destiny's Child and for her solo music career.
  • Kelly Slater: Kelly Slater is an American professional surfer known for being an 11-time World Surf League champion.

Wikipedia, NSW Births Deaths and Marriages, QLD Registry of Births, Deaths & Marriages, WA Registry of Births, SA Registry of Births, VIC Registry of Births, Social Security Administration

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