All about the name

Cecely

Female

« Cecely is an English name of Latin origin meaning "blind", derived from Caecilius. »

#28959 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Cecily is a charming and unique name of English origin, derived from the Latin word "Caecilius," which means "blind." This name has been used throughout history, often as a female variation of the male name Caecilius. The earliest known use of Cecily as a given name for females dates back to medieval England. During this time, it was common for families to give their daughters names that were traditionally used for males in order to honor family members or relatives. One notable example is Saint Cecilia, who was a martyr and the patron saint of music. She was known for her courage and faith during Roman times, which may have contributed to the popularity of the name Cecily among early Christians. In literature, Cecily appears as a character in Shakespeare's play "The Comedy of Errors," which was written around 1594. The story follows two sets of identical twins who were separated at birth, and one set of twins is named Antipholus and Cecily. This play helped to popularize the name Cecily among English speakers during the Renaissance period. Over time, Cecily has evolved into a more feminine-sounding name, with some variations including Cecilie, Cecila, and Cecille. Despite its long history, it remains relatively uncommon today, making it an attractive choice for parents looking for a distinctive yet timeless name for their daughter. In summary, Cecily is an English name of Latin origin that means "blind." It has been used throughout history, particularly in medieval England and during the Renaissance period. While once considered unisex, it has become more associated with females over time. Its unique sound and rich historical background make Cecily a charming choice for parents seeking a distinctive name for their daughter.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Cecely since 1880

Total births
80
Total since 1880
Peak year
1990
17 births
in 1998
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years