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Kelly

Girl / Boy name · 6,303 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Kelly: 6,303 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to both boys and girls, peaking at 467 births in 1980.

With ancient Gaelic roots, Kelly comes from the Irish surname *Ó Ceallaigh*, meaning "descendant of Ceallach" – a personal name likely meaning "bright-headed" or "strife," though it's most often associated with the concept of war or contention. Originally a masculine name in Ireland, it became a popular unisex choice in the 20th century, especially for girls following the fame of American actress and Princess of Monaco Grace Kelly, whose elegance brought the name into the international spotlight. Award-winning Irish actor Michael F. Kelly, known for roles in *House of Cards*, is another prominent bearer, while the Australian outback town of Kellyville, New South Wales, was named after an early settler rather than the bush ranger Ned Kelly. In Scotland, the name sits comfortably alongside a cluster of lively "K" names, balancing its Irish heritage with a modern, friendly feel.