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 Aug 14, 2024 · 2 mins read
Region Origin: Western 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

Parents Who Like the Name Kelly Also Like:

Parents who like the name Kelly often have similar name preferences and tend to choose popular choices like:

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.

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