The sept's historic heartland, highlighted. People moved — a name can be found far from home.
Quick answersIs Kelly an Irish name?
Kelly is a Gaelic name: it was formed in Irish, from an Irish ancestor, before English was spoken here. In Irish the name is Ó Ceallaigh.
What does the surname Kelly mean?
Kelly (Irish: Ó Ceallaigh) means “descendant of Ceallach, 'bright-headed' or 'strife'”. Origin: Gaelic sept.
Where in Ireland is the surname Kelly from?
The historic homeland of the Kelly name is Galway, Roscommon, Meath. People moved, so the name can be found far beyond it.
What is the Irish for Kelly?
Ó Ceallaigh. Related spellings: O'Kelly.
Looking for the Kelly family crest? Read this first — arms belong to people, not surnames, and the honest version is more interesting.
Tracing Kelly ancestors? The step-by-step guide.