Keeley

Meaning

Descendant of Caolaidh, derived from Irish elements meaning 'slender' or 'narrow'.

Etymology

The surname comes from the Irish Ó Caolaidh, with Keeley being an anglicized form. The Irish root caol means slender or narrow, with -aidh as a diminutive suffix.

About the Keeley Surname

An Irish surname with descriptive origins referring to physical characteristics. The name has spread widely through Irish emigration in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Distribution

Common in Ireland and present in significant numbers in the United States, Australia, and other English-speaking nations.

Notable Bearers

Christine Keeley (Profumo affair figure), Robert Keeley (diplomat)

People with the Keeley Surname