Keely is almost always a girls' name in Ireland, but in America, it can be used for either gender. This is especially because it feels like a diminutive for Keelan. Though no longer a top 1,000 name since 2009, it is a popular choice if you have an Irish background.
Meaning and Origin of the Name Keely:
Keely originated as the feminine version of the Irish name Keelan, but it can be used for either gender, especially in America. The name comes from the Irish surname O Caolaidhe, meaning “descendent of Caoladhe”. The name Caoladhe, ultimately, is an ancient Irish name. Keely's origins give it the meaning “slender”.
Nicknames for the Name Keely:
Keely is a unique name! When thinking about any name, you'll want to keep the nicknames that can go with it in mind. This is a comprehensive list of the best nicknames for Keely:
Symbolism of the Name Keely:
The baby name Keely can trace back to the traditional Gaelic name Caoladhe. This name comes from the word “caol” which means “slender”.
Style of the Name Keely:
Traditional
Gender of the Name Keely:
Keely is a name used for boys and girls that feels young and fresh. In Ireland, it is primarily a girl's name, however, as the male form is Keelan.
Pronunciation of the Name Keely:
KEE-lee
Number of Syllables in the Name Keely:
Two
Emotion Evoked From the Name Keely:
Keely is a name that feels young and fresh. It is wholesome and very unique.
Alternative Spellings for the Name Keely:
- Keelie
- Keelee
- Keeley
- Kieley
- Kiely
- Kielee
- Keeleigh
Popularity of the Name Keely:
The baby name Keely has only been a top 500 name once, in the year 1997 at rank 455. 2009 was the last year this name appeared on the top 1,000. In that last year, it ranked number 938, according to the Social Security Administration.
Related Names for the Name Keely:
Great Middle Names for Keely and Their Meanings:
- Rae (well-advised protector)
- Lauren (wisdom, laurel)
- Ryan (little king)
- Madison (son of Matthew)
- Isla (island)
- Harper (player on the harp)
- Harrison (house ruler)
- Vienna (forest stream)
Famous People with the Name Keely:
- Keely Smith (TV journalist)
- Keely Wee (singer from Singapore)
- Keely Froling (basketball player)
- Keely Medeiros (shot putter)
Keelys in Popular Culture:
- Keely Teslow (character from “Phil of the Future”)
The image featured at the top of this post is ©szefei/Shutterstock.com.