Kelley
2025 SSA
2025 SSA
About Kelley
Kelley is primarily an Irish surname that evolved into a masculine given name. It derives from the Gaelic 'Ó Ceallaigh' meaning 'descendant of Ceallach,' an ancient personal name potentially meaning 'bright-headed' or 'troublesome.' While traditionally used as a boy's name, Kelley has become increasingly gender-neutral in modern usage, though it remains more common for males. The spelling with the extra 'e' distinguishes it slightly from the more feminine-leaning 'Kelly.' As a first name, Kelley gained modest popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century but has gradually declined since the 1980s. The name carries connotations of Irish heritage and is often associated with strength and resilience.
Kelley for girls#7322 US
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 #8601 in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #588 in 1968.
Popularity & trends
Data table
| Year | US rank · boys | Births · boys | US rank · girls | Births · girls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | — | 0 | #3,882 | 39 |
| 2015 | — | 0 | #4,921 | 28 |
| 2016 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2017 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2018 | #4,844 | 20 | #4,713 | 29 |
| 2019 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2020 | — | 0 | #4,607 | 29 |
| 2021 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2022 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2023 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2024 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2025 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
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Kelley on lists
Famous Kelleys
- Kelley JonesBoy
American comic book artist
- Kelley LovelaceBoy
American country music songwriter
- Kelley James Donoho (b. 2009)Boy
son of American actress Holly Marie Combs
- Kelley ArmstrongGirl
Canadian fantasy novelist
- Kelley Maureen O'HaraGirl
American soccer player
- Kelley DealGirl
American lead singer of The Breeders, twin sister of Kim Deal
- Kelley LawGirl
Canadian Olympic curler
Kelley in pop culture
- Kelley BonnerGirl
from movie "Little Red Wagon" played by Daveigh Chase