All about the name

Kiley

Male

« Kiley is a unique, Irish-origin given name meaning "descendant of Ceallach," which translates to "bright-headed" or "alert. »

#25574 over 10 years

Meaning, origin, history

Kiley is a unique and distinctive given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish surname "Ó Ceallaigh," which is believed to have been originally O'Kelly. The meaning behind Kiley is "descendant of Ceallach," with Ceallach being an ancient Irish personal name that means "bright-headed" or "alert." The use of Kiley as a given name is relatively modern, with its popularity rising in the late 20th century. It has since become more commonly used as a unisex name, although it was originally more prevalent among males. In terms of history, the O'Kelly clan was a notable Irish family, with their surname being one of the most frequently recorded in Ireland. They were considered to be one of the three "Principal Tribes" of County Galway and held significant lands and titles throughout the region. While Kiley may not have the same level of historical significance as some other Irish names, it is a charming and unusual choice for parents looking to give their child a distinctive name with an interesting backstory. Its unisex nature also adds to its versatility and appeal.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Kiley since 1880

Total births
1,097
Total since 1880
Peak year
1971
80 births
in 2016
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-100% ↘
vs previous 5 years