Kelly (given name)

Kelly is a given name and family name. As a given name, "Kelly" is used mostly for females. However, there are some males with the name.
As a family name, "Kelly" has many origins. The family name started in the 19th century. It was used for a masculine name in the late 19th century. Feminine use began around 1940. By 1957, it surpassed male usage thanks to American actress Grace Kelly.
Kelly, as a girl's name, was at #900 in 1950. It peaked at #10 around 1977. Kelly is still popular as a girl's name, although it has declined.
Famous people named Kelly include Kelly Ayotte, Kelly Carlson and Kelly Clarkson.