Keelie is a unique and uncommon female given name of Scottish origin. Its meaning and history are deeply rooted in the country's rich cultural heritage.
The name Keelie is derived from the Scottish surname "Kiely," which is an Anglicized form of the Gaelic name "Caoilfhionn." Caoilfhionn, in turn, comes from the elements "caol" meaning "slender" or "fine" and "fionn" meaning "fair-haired" or "white." Therefore, Keelie can be interpreted as a reference to someone with fair hair who is slender or fine.
The history of the name Keelie can be traced back to its origins in Gaelic Scotland. The surname Kiely has been recorded since at least the 13th century and is believed to have been brought to Ireland by Scottish settlers during that time. Over generations, the name evolved from its Gaelic roots to its current English form.
In terms of popularity, Keelie is not a common name today. It is considered unique and distinctive due to its rarity. However, it does possess a certain charm and elegance that might appeal to those seeking an uncommon yet meaningful name for their child.
Overall, the name Keelie offers an intriguing connection to Scotland's past while also providing a unique identity for those who bear it today. Its meaning and history serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of Gaelic culture and language.
The name Keelie has seen a varied pattern of usage in the United States over the past several decades. Between 1962 and 2023, there have been a total of 1488 births registered with the name Keelie.
The name's popularity has fluctuated significantly over time. In the 1960s and early 1970s, Keelie was quite uncommon, with fewer than 10 births per year recorded during most years. However, starting in the late 1980s, there was a marked increase in its usage.
In 1990, there were 24 births registered with the name Keelie, which was a significant rise from previous years. This trend continued throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, reaching its peak in 2007 with 75 births that year.
After 2007, there was a steady decline in the number of Keelie births. By 2014, this number had dropped to 29, where it remained for two consecutive years. Since then, the usage of Keelie has continued to decrease, with only 18 births recorded in 2022 and 10 in 2023.
Despite its fluctuating popularity, Keelie remains a distinctive name that has been chosen by parents across several generations in the United States. It is important to note that these statistics do not reflect international usage of the name nor do they provide insights into the reasons behind the fluctuations in popularity over time.