Kelley

Kelley is primarily a feminine name in modern usage, though it originated as an Irish surname derived from the Gaelic 'Ó Ceallaigh' meaning 'descendant of Ceallach' (bright-headed or troublesome). As a given name, Kelley represents one of several spelling variations including Kelly, Kelli, and Kellie, with this particular spelling adding a touch of distinction. It gained popularity as a first name in the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1960s and 1970s, riding the wave of surname-to-first-name conversions. Kelley maintains a friendly, approachable quality while honoring Irish heritage. The name strikes a balance between familiarity and uniqueness – recognizable but not overly common. Though its peak popularity has passed, Kelley continues to be appreciated for its Celtic roots and gender-versatile appeal.

Pronounced KEL-ee.

As of October 2026, Kelley ranked #7322 in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #168 in 1968.