Kelley is a variant of the surname Kelly, which itself derives from the Irish surname Ó Ceallaigh meaning 'descendant of Ceallach'. The personal name Ceallach is of uncertain origin, possibly meaning 'war' or 'bright-headed'. As a given name, Kelley has historically been used for both sexes, though it has shifted in popularity and gender association over time.Like other forms of Kelly, Kelley gained traction as a feminine given name in the mid-20th century, particularly influenced by figures such as actress and princess Grace Kelly and a character on the 1957 television series Bachelor Father. Before the 1940s, Kelly was predominantly masculine, but by the 1970s its popularity as a girl's name declined. The variant Kelley shares this trajectory, though it remains relatively uncommon.As a surname, Kelley is notable among many prominent Americans, including the statesman Alonzo G. Kelley, artist Alton Kelley, and U.S. Congressman Augustine B. Kelley. Other notable bearers include Abby Kelley Foster, a prominent abolitionist and women's rights activist, and television writer-producer David E. Kelley.Related variants of Kelley include Kelli, Kellie, Kelly, and Kelleigh, each offering alternative spellings of the same English name.Meaning: Variant of Kelly ('war' or 'descendant of Ceallach')Origin: Irish surname derived from Ó CeallaighType: Given name and surnameUsage regions: Primarily English-speaking countries