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Origin and meaning of the name Carey

What is the origin of the name Carey?

The first name Carey is of Gaelic origin, derived from the Irish surname Ó Ciardha meaning "descendant of Ciardha". It can also be a variation of the name Cary, which is of English origin and means "from the castle".

Learn more about the origin of the name Carey

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Carey

The name Carey is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic surname Ó Ciardha, meaning "dark" or "dark-haired". It is a unisex name, although it is more commonly used for males in some English-speaking countries. The name gained popularity in the United States during the 20th century, possibly due to the fame of American actor Cary Grant. Those named Carey are said to possess qualities such as intelligence, creativity, and leadership. The name is often associated with individuals who are determined, ambitious, and confident in their abilities. Carey has a strong and timeless quality to it, making it a popular choice for parents looking for a classic yet distinctive name for their child.

Character traits associated with the name Carey

People named Carey are often described as caring, compassionate, and dependable individuals. They are known for their strong sense of empathy and genuine concern for others. Careys are typically loyal and trustworthy friends who are always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. They have a nurturing and nurturing nature, making them natural caregivers who excel in professions such as nursing, teaching, or social work. Carey is also known for their strong work ethic and dedication to their goals, often going above and beyond to achieve success. They are generally optimistic and have a positive outlook on life, which can be contagious to those around them. Overall, Carey is a name associated with kindness, reliability, and a genuine desire to make the world a better place.

Popularity of the name Carey

The popularity of the first name Carey has varied over the years. In the 20th century, Carey was a fairly common name for both boys and girls in the United States, peaking in the 1950s and 1960s. However, more recently, the name Carey has seen a decline in popularity, particularly as a first name for boys. The name is now more commonly associated with females, likely due to its use as a surname or a gender-neutral name. Despite this shift, Carey still maintains a certain level of recognition and appeal, possibly due to its timeless and classic sound. Overall, while the popularity of Carey may fluctuate depending on the decade and region, it remains a charming and versatile name with a unique flair.

Famous people with the name Carey

Carey is a gender-neutral name that has been worn by several notable individuals across different fields. One of the most famous Careys is Carey Mulligan, a talented British actress known for her roles in films such as "An Education" and "Drive." Another well-known Carey is Carey Price, a professional ice hockey player who has been a goaltender for the Montreal Canadiens for over a decade and has won numerous awards for his outstanding performance on the ice. Additionally, Carey Hart is a renowned motocross competitor and freestyle motorcycle rider, as well as a successful entrepreneur and television personality. These Carey d individuals have all achieved great success in their respective careers and have made a lasting impact in their industries.

Variations of the name Carey

The variations of the name Carey in English include Cari, Cary, Kari, Carie, and Karie. These variations may be used depending on personal preference, cultural background, or geographical location. Each variant still retains the same pronunciation and origin, ultimately stemming from the Gaelic surname meaning "dweller near the castle". The name Carey has been used as both a masculine and feminine name throughout history, with notable individuals bearing this name in various fields such as music, sports, and literature. Overall, the variations of Carey offer individuals flexibility in choosing a name that suits their unique style and personality.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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