Keary is a name of Irish origin and meaning. It comes from the Irish surname "Ó Ceallaigh," which means "descendant of Ceallach." Ceallach was a legendary warrior chief who lived in Ireland during the Middle Ages.
The name Keary has been used as both a given name and a surname for centuries. As a surname, it is most commonly found in Ireland, but it can also be found in other countries with significant Irish populations, such as Australia and the United States.
As a given name, Keary is less common than some other names of Irish origin, such as Patrick or Sean. However, it has been used for boys and girls alike, although it is more commonly associated with males. The name has been gaining popularity in recent years, particularly in Ireland and other countries where Irish culture is strong.
In literature and popular culture, Keary has appeared as a character's name on several occasions. One notable example is the short story "The Necklace" by Guy de Maupassant, in which the protagonist's love interest is named Keary. The name has also been used in films such as "The Mummy Returns" (2001) and "The Dark Knight Rises" (2012).
Overall, Keary is a unique and distinctive name with a rich history and cultural significance. Its Irish origins and meaning make it a popular choice for parents looking for a name that celebrates their heritage or has a strong connection to Ireland.
The name Keary has had a varied history of popularity in the United States over several decades. Between 1965 and 2004, there were a total of 104 babies named Keary.
During this period, the most popular years for the name were 1971 with 10 births and 1973 with also 10 births. This suggests that the name may have had brief periods of increased popularity during these years.
However, the number of births with the name Keary has been relatively low in most other years, with only a few occurrences each year. The lowest recorded year was 1982 with just 5 births, indicating that it was not widely used as a baby name during this time.
Overall, while Keary has had some periods of popularity, it remains a somewhat uncommon name in the United States. Its uniqueness may contribute to its appeal for parents looking for distinctive names for their children.