Kelly
Kelly is an Irish surname used as a given name, anglicized from the Gaelic O Ceallaigh, meaning 'descendant of Ceallach,' where Ceallach may derive from a word meaning 'bright-headed,' 'war' or 'contest.
Meaning & Story
Kelly is an Irish surname used as a given name, anglicized from the Gaelic O Ceallaigh, meaning 'descendant of Ceallach,' where Ceallach may derive from a word meaning 'bright-headed,' 'war' or 'contest.' It was one of the most popular Irish surnames in America through the 20th century.
Kelly is a name that brings to mind the easy, confident charm of a classic Irish personality — approachable, warm, and quietly sharp. Its long run as an Irish-American surname and given name gives it deep roots in American culture, where it feels completely familiar without feeling overused as a pet name. It suits female pets with a sociable, outgoing nature who make friends with everyone they meet. Kelly is the pet who never meets a stranger and always makes the party better.
At a Glance
Popular Breeds Named Kelly
| Breed | Pets Named |
|---|---|
| Shih Tzu | 18 |
| Chihuahua | 16 |
| Labrador Retriever | 14 |
| American Shorthair | 1 |
Similar Pet Names
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kelly a good pet name?
Kelly is a well-known pet name with 193 registered pets. Pets named Kelly are often described as friendly, sociable, confident.
Is Kelly a boy or girl pet name?
Kelly is more commonly given to female pets, though it can be used for any pet.
Is Kelly also a human name?
Yes! Kelly is both a popular pet name (ranked #639 for pets) and a baby name. It is one of 1,600+ names shared between pets and humans on NamesPop.