Kelly
Meaning & Origin
Meaning: Warrior; Bright-headed
Background: The name Kelly originates from the Gaelic surname 'Ó Ceallaigh,' which means 'descendant of Ceallach.' The roots of the name Ceallach are often interpreted as meaning 'warrior' or 'bright-headed.' This surname was traditionally used in Ireland and has evolved into a given name over time.
At a glance
Quick stats based on the history of this name.
Lifetime rank
#69
Total births
555,958
Most popular decade
1960s
(468,168 births)
10-year trend
↓ Falling (-435 ranks)
Years in Top 100
41
First recorded year
1880
Gender usage
14.8% male
85.2% female
Stats by gender
Male
- First year
- 1880
- First year births
- 5
- First year rank
- #909
- Peak year
- 1967
- Peak year births
- 3,093
- Peak rank
- #102
- Most recent year
- 2024
- Recent year births
- 109
- Recent rank
- #1,574
Female
- First year
- 1907
- First year births
- 5
- First year rank
- #2,061
- Peak year
- 1977
- Peak year births
- 18,234
- Peak rank
- #10
- Most recent year
- 2024
- Recent year births
- 310
- Recent rank
- #867
Births over time
Number of babies given this name each year.
Rank over time
Popularity rank by year (1 = most popular).