Connelly is a masculine given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish surname "Ó Conaill", which means "descendant of Conall". The personal name Conall itself means "zealous" or "constant".
The name Connelly has a rich history and can be traced back to ancient Ireland. According to legend, the Ó Conaill clan were known for their bravery and loyalty in battle. They were one of the many tribes that settled in Ireland during the early medieval period.
Over time, the name Connelly has evolved and become more widely used as a given name rather than just a surname. Today, it is still relatively uncommon but can be found throughout the English-speaking world.
In terms of its popularity, Connelly has never been among the most common names. However, it has seen some peaks in usage over the years. For instance, in the United States, it was most popular during the 1980s and early 1990s but has since declined in usage.
Despite its relative rarity, Connelly remains a strong and distinctive name choice. Its Irish origins give it a sense of history and tradition, while its meaning imparts a sense of steadfastness and determination. Overall, Connelly is a name that stands out without being too unusual or difficult to pronounce.
The name Connelly has experienced varying popularity over the past three decades in the United States, with a total of 219 babies given this name since 1991.
In 1991, there were only 5 recorded births with the name Connelly. However, by 2004, this number had already doubled to 6 births. The year 2005 saw a significant increase, with 9 babies named Connelly being born that year.
The years 2007 to 2011 showed fluctuations in popularity, ranging from 6 to 12 births per year. However, there was another notable peak in 2009, with 15 babies given the name Connelly.
From 2014 onwards, the number of births with the name Connelly began to rise again, reaching a recent high of 22 births in 2020. This trend has continued into 2022 and 2023, with 17 and 15 births respectively.
While Connelly may not be one of the most common names in the United States, its popularity has shown consistent growth over time, suggesting that it is a name that continues to appeal to parents seeking something distinctive yet classic for their children.