How common is the O'Kelly surname?

There are approximately 100,000 people with the surname O'Kelly in the United States.

Are there O'Kelly soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 88 soldiers with the O'Kelly surname appear in Civil War records.

O'Kelly

Q: What does the surname O'Kelly mean?

The surname O'Kelly means "Descendant of Kelly, derived from the Irish personal name Ceallach meaning 'bright-headed' or 'warrior'.". It is of Irish origin.

Patronymic

Meaning

Descendant of Kelly, derived from the Irish personal name Ceallach meaning 'bright-headed' or 'warrior'.

Etymology

The Irish prefix 'O'' (from 'Ó') denotes 'descendant of,' combined with Kelly from the Irish Ceallach. The name has been borne by Irish nobility and appears in records since medieval times.

About the O'Kelly Surname

O'Kelly is a major Irish patronymic surname with roots in medieval Irish nobility. The family held significant power in Leinster and produced many prominent historical and contemporary figures.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 100,000 bearers in the United States #391 most common surname

Rare Common

Found throughout Ireland, particularly in Leinster and Connacht, with large diaspora populations worldwide.

O'Kelly Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the O'Kelly Surname

Sean O'Kelly

Quick Facts

Origin: Irish
Classification: Patronymic
Earliest Record: 11th century
Estimated Bearers: 100,000

War Records

88 soldiers with the O'Kelly surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →