What does Casey mean and where does it come from?
Casey is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name 'O'Cathasaigh'. It traditionally denotes a strong character, emphasizing bravery and vigilance. This name became popular in the United States particularly in the 20th century and is now commonly used for girls as well as boys. Its unisex quality
Cultural significance
Casey has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of brave in battle.
Peak popularity
Reached #81 in 1986 — currently #316 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Casey?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Casey?
Casey works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Casey Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Casey Rose
Floral · soft ending
Casey Mae
Sweet · timeless
Casey Claire
French influence · crisp
Casey Jane
Literary · strong
Casey Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Casey right now?
Rising — up 20 spots — currently #316 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #316 | 1,054 | ▲ up 20 · +5% births |
| 2022 | #336 | 1,006 | ▲ up 111 · +47% births |
| 2021 | #447 | 686 | ▲ up 616 · +198% births |
| 2020 | #1063 | 230 | ▼ down 244 · -33% births |
| 2015 | #819 | 342 | ▼ down 209 · -29% births |
| 2010 | #610 | 484 | ▼ down 202 · -37% births |
| 2005 | #408 | 769 | ▼ down 200 · -49% births |
| 2000 | #208 | 1,517 | ▼ down 90 · -42% births |
| 1995 | #118 | 2,638 | ▼ down 12 · -19% births |
| 1990 | #106 | 3,261 | ▲ up 7 · +32% births |
| 1985 | #113 | 2,477 | ▲ up 23 · +14% births |
| 1980 | #136 | 2,171 | ▲ up 147 · +154% births |
| 1975 | #283 | 856 | ▲ up 378 · +252% births |
| 1970 | #661 | 243 | ▲ up 699 · +268% births |
| 1965 | #1360 | 66 | — |
The story of Casey
Casey entered American naming records in 1921 and has been in use for over 103 years. Its peak popularity was #81 in 1986. More than 188,551 babies have been named Casey since 1921. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2566 in 1950 to #316 in 2023. Casey is used for both genders: 41% female and 59% male.
Names that peaked alongside Casey in 1986:
Casey by decade
Casey peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 6 | |
| 1890s | 37 | |
| 1900s | 89 | |
| 1910s | 444 | |
| 1920s | 357 | |
| 1930s | 277 | |
| 1940s | 618 | |
| 1950s | 3,081 | |
| 1960s | 5,686 | |
| 1970s | 27,637 | |
| 1980s ★ | 63,888 | |
| 1990s | 55,141 | |
| 2000s | 21,377 | |
| 2010s | 9,142 | |
| 2020s | 771 | |
What are good nicknames for Casey?
What names sound and feel like Casey?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Casey also consider these
How is Casey written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Casey
What does the name Casey mean?
Casey means "Brave in battle" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Casey?
Casey is currently ranked #316 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Casey have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Casey?
Casey originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Casey?
Casey is a two-syllable name pronounced K AE1 S IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Casey trending right now?
Casey is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.