Keely is an Irish origin name with a rich history and unique meaning. It is derived from the Irish surname "Ó Coilleáin," which means "descendant of Coileán." The name Coileán is believed to have come from the Irish word "coileach," meaning "rooster" or "chicken."
The name Keely was originally used as a boy's name in Ireland, but it has since gained popularity as a girl's name in English-speaking countries. In fact, according to data from the Social Security Administration in the United States, Keely has been more commonly given to girls than boys since the late 1980s.
Despite its Irish origins and traditional association with males, Keely is now considered a gender-neutral name. It has also gained popularity beyond Ireland, with notable bearers including American actress Keely Hawes and Australian singer-songwriter Keely Filewood.
The meaning of Keely as "descendant of Coileán" can be interpreted in various ways. Some people may associate it with strength and masculinity due to its traditional use as a boy's name. However, others might interpret it as a symbol of resilience or adaptability, given that the name has transcended gender boundaries to become popular for both boys and girls.
Overall, Keely is an intriguing name with an interesting history and unique meaning. Its Irish origins give it a distinctive character, while its gender-neutral nature makes it accessible to parents seeking a versatile naming option for their child.
Keely is a unique and uncommon name that has seen some popularity over the years in the United States. According to the available statistics, there were five girls named Keely born in the U.S. in 1988, six in 1996, and another five in both 2001 and 2006. These figures show a slight fluctuation in popularity over time, with the highest number of births occurring during the mid-1990s.
Overall, there have been a total of 21 girls named Keely born in the United States between these four years. While this is not a large number compared to more popular names, it indicates that Keely has remained a distinctive and recognizable name choice for parents during this period. This information can be useful for those interested in naming their child something different and memorable, as well as for researchers studying trends in baby naming over time.
Sources:
* U.S. Social Security Administration: