Kelly \k(el)-ly\ as a boy's name (also used as girl's name Kelly), is pronounced KEL-ee. It is of Irish and Gaelic origin, and the meaning of Kelly is "descendant of Ceallach". Transferred use of the surname. Originally an anglicized form of the male name Ceallach, possibly meaning "bright-headed", "strife", or "church, monastery". TV producer David Kelley.

Kelly has 1 variant form: Kelley.

For more information, see also related names Cillian, Keeley and Killian.

Baby names that sound like Kelly are Keely, Kealy, Kell and Kelle.