Kelly
Meaning of Kelly
The name Kelly is a charming and versatile choice for both boys and girls, carrying with it a rich cultural heritage. Originating from the Irish Gaelic surname "Ó Ceallaigh," which means "descendant of Ceallach," the name Kelly has evolved into a popular unisex first name. Pronounced as KEH-lee in English and KEHL-ee in Irish Gaelic, it maintains a melodic quality that appeals to many. The name Kelly gained significant popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century, peaking in the 1970s when it consistently ranked within the top 20 names for newborns. Although its usage has declined since then, Kelly remains a beloved classic. Variations such as Kellie offer additional options for parents seeking a slightly different twist on this timeless name. Whether you're looking for a nod to your Irish roots or simply appreciate its enduring appeal, Kelly is a delightful choice that stands the test of time.
Pronunciation
English
- Pronunced as KEH-lee (/ˈkɛ.li/)
Irish Gaelic
- Pronunced as KEHL-ee (/ˈkɛ.li/)
U.S. Popularity Chart
States Popularity Chart
Notable People Named Kelly
| Kelly Brianne Clarkson is an American singer, songwriter, and television personality who gained fame after winning the first season of American Idol in 2002 and has since achieved chart-topping success with hit singles and albums. |
| Kelly Williams is a Filipino-American professional basketball player known for his career with the TNT Tropang Giga in the PBA and his representation of the Philippines in international competitions. |
| Kelly Johnson - Clarence Leonard "Kelly" Johnson was a renowned American aeronautical and systems engineer known for his influential aircraft designs, including the Lockheed U-2 and SR-71 Blackbird. |
| Robert Kelly Slater is an American professional surfer and 11-time World Surf League champion, widely considered the greatest professional surfer of all time. |
| Kelly Maria Ripa is an American actress and talk show host known for co-hosting the syndicated morning talk show Live! with Kelly since 2001. |
| Dame Kelly Holmes is a retired British middle distance athlete. |
| Kelly Marie Tran is an American actress known for her roles in the Star Wars sequel trilogy and as the voice of Princess Raya in Disney's Raya and the Last Dragon. |
| Kelly Preston, also known as Kelly Kamalelehua Smith, was a prolific American actress who appeared in numerous television and film productions, including popular movies like Twins, Jerry Maguire, and For Love of the Game. |
| Kelly Ann Hu is an American actress, former fashion model, and beauty queen known for her roles in television and film. |
| Kelly Price is an American R&B and gospel singer who gained fame in the late 1990s with her platinum-certified debut album "Soul of a Woman" and hit single "Friend of Mine." |
| Kelly Marie Monaco is an American actress, model, and reality TV personality, known for her roles in General Hospital and Dancing with the Stars. |
| Kelly Macdonald is a highly acclaimed Scottish actress, recognized for her outstanding work in both film and television, and has received numerous prestigious awards throughout her career. |
| Kelly Reilly - Jessica Kelly Siobhán Reilly is an English actress known for her roles in television series such as Above Suspicion, Black Box, True Detective, Britannia, and Yellowstone. |
| Kelly Bryant is a professional gridiron football quarterback for the Arlington Renegades of the United Football League (UFL) and previously played for the Missouri and Clemson Tigers. |
| Kelly Killoren Bensimon - Kelly Jean Killoren Bensimon is an American real estate agent, author, former Editor of Elle Accessories, and former model who gained fame as a cast member on The Real Housewives of New York City. |
