Casey Unisex
Origin(s)
PronunciationKAY-see / /ˈkeɪ.si/Irish; English
Meaning
Irish: vigilant; English: brave in battle
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Casey has its roots in the Irish Gaelic name "O'Cathasaigh," which means "descendant of Cathasach," with "Cathasach" translating to "vigilant" or "watchful." The name evolved through various forms, including the anglicized version "Casey" that emerged in the 19th century as Irish surnames were adapted for English-speaking contexts. The transition into English can be traced through the migration of Irish families to English-speaking countries, particularly during the Great Famine in the mid-19th century, when many Irish surnames were transformed into given names to facilitate integration into new societies.
Historically, the name Casey has been associated with notable figures in Irish history, including various leaders and warriors. The O'Cathasaigh clan was prominent in the province of Munster, and the name has been borne by several saints and local heroes throughout Irish folklore. The use of Casey as a given name gained traction in the 20th century, particularly in the United States, where it was embraced by Irish-American communities. The name's presence in literature and popular culture, including its use in sports and media, has further solidified its standing.
Culturally, Casey embodies themes of vigilance and watchfulness, resonating with the qualities of guardianship and protection. This connection to vigilance is reflected in various traditions and stories within Irish culture, where names often carry significant meanings and attributes. The name also has diminutive forms, such as "Case," which have been used affectionately in familial and social contexts. Overall, Casey's historical and cultural significance is deeply intertwined with Irish heritage, making it a name rich in meaning and tradition.
Trend Summary
Casey has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, peaking in the 1990s.
Similar Names
Variants
- Kacey
- Cacey
International Variants
- Kasey (English)
- Casi (Spanish)
Famous people named Casey
Casey Affleck is an actor and director best known for Manchester by the Sea, Good Will Hunting, and The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford.
Casey Kasem is a radio personality and voice actor best known for American Top 40, Scooby-Doo, and Shaggy & Scooby-Doo Get a Clue!
Casey Neistat is a filmmaker and YouTuber best known for his daily vlogs, the film Daddy Long Legs, and his work with HBO.
Casey Stengel is a baseball player and manager best known for his time with the New York Yankees, leading them to multiple championships, and for his unique quotes and sayings.
Fictional characters named Casey
Casey Becker is a fictional character from the film Scream. She is the first victim of the Ghostface killer, setting the tone for the horror film series.
Casey Jones is a fictional character from the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise. He is a vigilante who fights alongside the turtles to protect New York City from various threats.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Casey was first seen in the United States in 1888. Casey has ranked as high as #163 nationally, which occurred in 1990, and has been most popular in California, Ohio, New York, Florida, and Michigan. In the past 5 years the name Casey has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Casey (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
TX | 105 | |
CA | 93 | |
PA | 53 | |
FL | 49 | |
NY | 48 | |
WA | 43 | |
OH | 42 | |
IL | 41 | |
VA | 37 | |
MA | 36 | |
MI | 35 | |
NC | 32 | |
TN | 29 | |
MO | 25 | |
CT | 24 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1888 | 6 |
1890 | 5 |
1892 | 7 |
1894 | 9 |
1895 | 5 |
1897 | 5 |
1898 | 6 |
1900 | 13 |
1901 | 7 |
1903 | 10 |
1904 | 7 |
1905 | 5 |
1906 | 12 |
1907 | 8 |
1908 | 11 |
1909 | 16 |
1910 | 19 |
1911 | 33 |
1912 | 45 |
1913 | 44 |
1914 | 48 |
1915 | 53 |
1916 | 46 |
1917 | 38 |
1918 | 63 |
1919 | 55 |
1920 | 44 |
1921 | 39 |
1922 | 42 |
1923 | 36 |
1924 | 45 |
1925 | 26 |
1926 | 35 |
1927 | 29 |
1928 | 24 |
1929 | 27 |
1930 | 19 |
1931 | 25 |
1932 | 31 |
1933 | 35 |
1934 | 22 |
1935 | 25 |
1936 | 35 |
1937 | 32 |
1938 | 21 |
1939 | 32 |
1940 | 24 |
1941 | 30 |
1942 | 56 |
1943 | 41 |
1944 | 47 |
1945 | 41 |
1946 | 56 |
1947 | 73 |
1948 | 88 |
1949 | 115 |
1950 | 117 |
1951 | 154 |
1952 | 180 |
1953 | 179 |
1954 | 236 |
1955 | 298 |
1956 | 352 |
1957 | 368 |
1958 | 374 |
1959 | 398 |
1960 | 347 |
1961 | 360 |
1962 | 517 |
1963 | 369 |
1964 | 394 |
1965 | 442 |
1966 | 563 |
1967 | 503 |
1968 | 552 |
1969 | 677 |
1970 | 899 |
1971 | 1,125 |
1972 | 1,191 |
1973 | 1,277 |
1974 | 1,729 |
1975 | 1,960 |
1976 | 2,126 |
1977 | 2,596 |
1978 | 3,003 |
1979 | 3,082 |
1980 | 3,215 |
1981 | 3,518 |
1982 | 3,427 |
1983 | 3,228 |
1984 | 3,511 |
1985 | 3,490 |
1986 | 3,762 |
1987 | 3,926 |
1988 | 4,039 |
1989 | 3,850 |
1990 | 4,133 |
1991 | 4,107 |
1992 | 3,575 |
1993 | 3,180 |
1994 | 3,046 |
1995 | 2,629 |
1996 | 2,464 |
1997 | 2,098 |
1998 | 1,975 |
1999 | 2,043 |
2000 | 1,822 |
2001 | 1,555 |
2002 | 1,399 |
2003 | 1,253 |
2004 | 1,271 |
2005 | 1,101 |
2006 | 1,070 |
2007 | 985 |
2008 | 976 |
2009 | 829 |
2010 | 706 |
2011 | 649 |
2012 | 557 |
2013 | 559 |
2014 | 523 |
2015 | 517 |
2016 | 514 |
2017 | 545 |
2018 | 469 |
2019 | 539 |
2020 | 553 |
2021 | 686 |
2022 | 1,006 |
2023 | 1,054 |
2024 | 1,096 |