Kelby is an uncommon yet distinctive given name of American origin. It has gained popularity due to its unique sound and spelling, making it a standout choice for parents seeking an unconventional name for their child. The name Kelby is believed to be derived from the English surname Kelley, which is thought to have originated from the Old Norse personal name Kælli. This gives Kelby a Scandinavian connection, despite its English origin. As of recent data, Kelby appears more frequently as a female name in the United States, although it can also be used for males. Its pronunciation is often represented as /KEL-bee/, with emphasis on the first syllable. The name Kelby does not have any specific associated meanings or etymological roots that derive from well-known languages like Latin, Greek, or Hebrew. Instead, it carries a unique identity all its own, appealing to those who appreciate uncommon and distinctive names.
"The name Kelby saw its popularity peak in the early 1990s with a significant increase from 88 births in 1992 to 340 births between 1993 and 1997, before steadily declining to just 9 births in 2023. Over the entire period, there were a total of 1532 babies named Kelby."