Kelsey is a given name of English origin, derived from the surname Kelsie or Kelsey. The surname itself is believed to have originated from a place name in Scotland, possibly Kelso in Roxburghshire or Kelsall in Cheshire, England. However, some sources suggest that it may also be of Norman origin, brought to Britain by the Normans after the invasion of 1066.
The meaning of the name Kelsey is not entirely clear, as its origin is not well-documented. Some sources suggest that if the name is derived from Kelso, it may mean "cell or monastery in wooded valley" from the Old English elements 'cel' meaning 'cell' or 'monastery' and '-sah' meaning 'wooded valley'. If it is of Norman origin, it might be derived from a personal name composed of Germanic elements such as 'hal' meaning 'hale' or 'healthy' and '-ric' meaning 'power'.
The use of Kelsey as a given name appears to have begun in the United States during the mid-20th century. It gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s, likely due to its sound similarity to other popular names at the time such as Leslie and Melissa. Today, it is still used occasionally as a given name, though it is more commonly found as a surname.
In literature and popular culture, there are several notable characters named Kelsey, including Kelsey Grammar who played Dr. Frasier Crane in the television series "Frasier" and Kelsey Grammer who played the same character in the spin-off show "Cheers". Additionally, the name Kelsey has been used as a given name for several fictional characters in books, movies, and TV shows.
Overall, while the origin and meaning of the name Kelsey are not entirely clear, it is a unique and distinctive name with a potentially interesting history. Its use as a given name appears to have been popularized in the United States during the mid-20th century and has since become associated with several notable figures in literature and popular culture.
The name Kelsey has seen a fascinating journey of popularity and fluctuation over the years in the United States. In the early 20th century, its usage was quite sporadic, with fewer than 15 births per year between 1910 and 1947. However, starting from 1948, we observe a significant increase in its popularity, with 19 births recorded that year.
The name's popularity peaked in the late 1980s to early 1990s, with 250 births recorded in 1989 and remaining above 160 births per year until 1994. This period saw Kelsey become one of the most popular girl names in the U.S.
Interestingly, from 1995 onwards, we observe a steady decline in the popularity of the name Kelsey. By 2000, there were only 62 births recorded, and this trend has continued with fluctuations up until recent years, where it stands at 23 births in 2022.
In total, since 1891, there have been approximately 5301 births of the name Kelsey in the United States. This data provides valuable insights into the changing tastes and preferences of parents over time regarding baby names.