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Casey Unisex

Popularity: #293 · Trend: ↗ Rising

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)

StateBirthsShare
TX 105
10%
CA 93
9%
PA 53
5%
FL 49
5%
NY 48
5%
WA 43
4%
OH 42
4%
IL 41
4%
VA 37
4%
MA 36
4%
MI 35
3%
NC 32
3%
TN 29
3%
MO 25
2%
CT 24
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18886
18905
18927
18949
18955
18975
18986
190013
19017
190310
19047
19055
190612
19078
190811
190916
191019
191133
191245
191344
191448
191553
191646
191738
191863
191955
192044
192139
192242
192336
192445
192526
192635
192729
192824
192927
193019
193125
193231
193335
193422
193525
193635
193732
193821
193932
194024
194130
194256
194341
194447
194541
194656
194773
194888
1949115
1950117
1951154
1952180
1953179
1954236
1955298
1956352
1957368
1958374
1959398
1960347
1961360
1962517
1963369
1964394
1965442
1966563
1967503
1968552
1969677
1970899
19711,125
19721,191
19731,277
19741,729
19751,960
19762,126
19772,596
19783,003
19793,082
19803,215
19813,518
19823,427
19833,228
19843,511
19853,490
19863,762
19873,926
19884,039
19893,850
19904,133
19914,107
19923,575
19933,180
19943,046
19952,629
19962,464
19972,098
19981,975
19992,043
20001,822
20011,555
20021,399
20031,253
20041,271
20051,101
20061,070
2007985
2008976
2009829
2010706
2011649
2012557
2013559
2014523
2015517
2016514
2017545
2018469
2019539
2020553
2021686
20221,006
20231,054
20241,096