Meaning, origin, history
Casey is a gender-neutral given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish surname "Ó Cathasaigh," which is composed of the elements "ó" meaning "descendant of," and "Cathasaigh" meaning "vigilant" or "watchful." Therefore, Casey means "watchful or vigilant person."
The name Casey has a long history in Ireland. It originated as a surname before becoming a popular given name for both boys and girls in the 20th century. In some cases, the name may also have been inspired by the Irish poem "Casey at the Bat," which was written by Ernest Lawrence Thayer in 1888.
Today, Casey is a unisex name that is often chosen for its strong, confident sound and its historical ties to Ireland. It has gained popularity worldwide due to its appealing nature and unique origin story. Despite its Irish roots, Casey is now used globally, making it a truly international choice for parents seeking a distinctive yet familiar name for their child.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Casey since 1880
Total births
77,626
Total since 1880
Peak year
1987
3,581 births
in 2023
239
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-6%
↘
vs previous 5 years