Rising since 2022.
Popularity of Kealey since 1988
Babies named Kealey per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1980s | 11 |
| 1990s | 131 |
| 2000s | 179 |
| 2010s | 54 |
| 2020s | 6 |
Meaning & origin
Kealey first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1988, a relatively modern entry for a name with Irish roots. It reached its peak popularity in 1999, when it was given to roughly 100 babies nationwide. After declining in the 2000s, the name has been on an upward trajectory since 2022. Kealey's top recorded states include none with significant clustering, reflecting its broad but sparse use. As a softer, feminine variation of Irish surnames, Kealey appeals to parents seeking a name that feels both familiar and distinctive.
Kealey is an Anglicized form of the Irish surname Ó Caollaidhe, derived from 'caol' meaning 'slender' or 'fair'. It is also sometimes considered a variant of Keeley or Kayley, though its exact origin is debated. The name has been used in Ireland for centuries but gained popularity in the United States starting in the late 20th century.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Kee, Lee, Kay
Sibling names for Kealey
Names that share Kealey's style, for a brother or sister.
