Carey is a name of Irish origin, derived from the Irish surname "Ó Cathasaigh," which is believed to have been brought over to England during the Norman Conquest in the 11th century. The name means "valiant" or "vigorous," and it has been associated with strength and courage throughout history.
The surname Carey has a rich history, dating back to ancient Ireland. It is said to be derived from the Gaelic word "cathasaigh," which means "vigorous" or "valiant." The Careys were a noble family in County Cork, and they played an important role in Irish politics and culture for centuries.
The name Carey has been used as both a first name and a surname throughout history. In England, the Carey family was prominent during the Elizabethan era, with Sir George Carey serving as Lord Chamberlain to Queen Elizabeth I. The Careys also had connections to the royal court of King James I.
Today, Carey is still a popular name in Ireland and around the world. It has been used as both a boy's and girl's name, although it is more commonly given to girls in recent years. Despite its Irish origins, Carey has become a global name, appearing in many different cultures and languages.
Overall, Carey is a strong and powerful name with a rich history behind it. Its meaning of "valiant" or "vigorous" makes it an appealing choice for parents looking for a name that embodies strength and courage. Whether used as a first name or a surname, Carey is sure to make a lasting impression.
The name Carey has seen a significant decline in popularity over the past century. While there were several years with over 100 births per year up until the mid-1950s, this number has steadily decreased since then, reaching as low as 7 births in recent years. The peak of popularity for the name Carey was likely in the late 1940s to early 1950s, with over 400 births per year during this period. However, even these numbers pale in comparison to the most popular names today.