Kelley is a name of Irish origin and meaning. It is derived from the Irish surname "Ó Ceallaigh," which means "descendant of Ceallach." Ceallach was a 10th-century king of Connacht, one of the provinces of Ireland.
The name Kelley has been used as both a first name and a last name for centuries in Ireland. It is believed to have originated from the Irish clan Ó Ceallaigh, who were known for their bravery and leadership.
Over time, the name Kelley spread beyond Ireland and can now be found in various countries around the world. While it was once primarily used as a masculine name, it has become more popular among women in recent years.
Despite its Irish origins, the name Kelley does not have any specific cultural or traditional associations. It is simply a name that has been passed down through generations and continues to be chosen by parents for their children today.
In terms of its meaning, Kelley does not have any specific attributes associated with it. However, some people may associate the name with positive qualities such as strength, leadership, and bravery due to its Irish origins and historical significance.
Overall, Kelley is a unique and historic name that has been used by both men and women for centuries. Its Irish origins and meaning make it a popular choice among those looking for a name with a rich history and cultural heritage.
The name Kelley had a fluctuating popularity over the years. It started with only 5 births in 1882 and remained relatively low until 1911 when it saw its first peak of 16 births. The highest number of births recorded was in 1958, with 150 babies named Kelley. However, since then, the popularity has significantly decreased, reaching a low of 9 births in 2014 and only 12 births in 2022. Overall, there were 6269 births in total for the name Kelley from 1882 to 2023.