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Name Origin

Kelly is an Irish surname that has become popular as a unisex given name. It originates from the Gaelic Ó Ceallaigh, meaning 'descendant of Ceallach'. Ceallach itself was a common Gaelic name meaning 'bright-headed' or 'warlike'.

irishgaelicsurnameunisexwarlikedescendant

Famous People

Kelly Clarkson (1982-)

Singer, songwriter, television personality

  • Won the first season of American Idol
  • Grammy Award winner
  • Multi-platinum selling artist

Kelly Ripa (1970-)

Actress, television presenter

  • Known for her role on the soap opera All My Children
  • Co-host of the talk show Live! with Kelly and Ryan

Kelly Slater (1972-)

Professional surfer

  • 11-time World Surf League champion
  • Widely regarded as the greatest surfer of all time

Kelly Osbourne (1984-)

Singer, actress, television personality

  • Starred in the MTV reality show The Osbournes
  • Released several albums
  • Appeared on various television shows

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