Caley

OriginModern invented name

Meaning"pup, cub"

GenderBoy & girl

US rank · girls#11124

2025 SSA

US rank · boysUnranked

Below 5 births

About Caley

Caley is a feminine name with Scottish and Irish Gaelic origins, though it can occasionally be used for boys as well. Derived from the Gaelic 'Cailean' (meaning 'young dog' or possibly 'slender'), it emerged as both a surname and given name in Celtic regions. Caley offers a modern feel while maintaining authentic cultural roots. The name has a bright, approachable quality with its light, two-syllable structure. While never reaching widespread popularity, Caley saw modest usage in the 1980s-90s, particularly in regions with strong Celtic heritage. The name sometimes serves as a variation of Kayley/Kayleigh or Callie. Caley projects a nature-loving, spirited personality with its outdoor associations and energetic sound. Its relative rarity makes it appealing to parents seeking something distinctive yet pronounceable and accessible.

Caley for boys

Caley is a masculine name with Scottish and Irish origins, derived from several possible Gaelic sources including 'cadhla' meaning 'graceful' or as an anglicized form of 'Ó Cadhla' meaning 'descendant of Cadhla.' The name has also been associated with place names in Scotland. With its approachable two-syllable structure and friendly ending sound, Caley strikes a balance between being recognizable and distinctive. Though traditionally used for boys, it has gained some usage as a unisex name in recent decades. Caley peaked in popularity during the 1990s but remains relatively uncommon, appealing to parents seeking a name with Celtic heritage that's neither too traditional nor too unusual. It's sometimes used as a variant spelling of Kaley or Kayley.

Pronounced KAY-lee.

As of October 2026, Caley ranked #11124 in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #1457 in 1994.