All about the name

Casey

Male

« Casey is an Irish surname-derived gender-neutral given name meaning "vigilant" or "watchful", popularized in the U.S. during the 19th century by figures like James "Casey" Kelly. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Casey is a gender-neutral given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish surname "Ó Cathasaigh", which means "descendant of Cathasach". The name Cathasach is believed to mean "vigilant" or "watchful". The use of Casey as a given name gained popularity in the United States during the 19th century, likely due to its association with popular figures such as the baseball player James "Casey" Kelly and the poet laureate of Ireland, Padraic Colum. Over time, Casey has become a widely recognized name throughout the English-speaking world. Despite its Irish origins, it is now used by people of various ethnic backgrounds. Today, Casey remains a popular choice for parents seeking a unique yet timeless name for their child. It is often associated with qualities such as strength, independence, and adaptability.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Casey since 1880

Total births
114,482
Total since 1880
Peak year
1990
4,132 births
in 2023
1,050
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+62%
vs previous 5 years