IPA Pronunciation

/ˈkuːli/

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Syllables

Cooley is an English and Irish surname turned given name, often believed to derive from the Old English 'col' meaning 'coal' and 'leah' meaning 'clearing or meadow.' Historically, it referred to someone living near a coal clearing or narrow passage. In Irish, it is associated with the Cooley Peninsula, rich in folklore and ancient Celtic history.

Cultural Significance of Cooley

The name Cooley carries cultural weight especially in Irish history due to the Cooley Peninsula, known for the epic Táin Bó Cúailnge, an important piece of Irish mythology. As a surname turned given name, it connects individuals to ancestral roots, coal mining heritage, and Celtic legends. It symbolizes strength, resilience, and connection to land and tradition.

Cooley Name Popularity in 2025

In contemporary times, Cooley is a unique and uncommon choice, appealing to parents seeking a name that is distinctive yet rooted in history. The name’s gentle sound and strong cultural ties make it attractive for those who want a name with character and authenticity. It has seen modest but steady use in English-speaking countries, often chosen for its vintage charm and modern appeal.

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Popular Nicknames10

ColeLeeCoolCoopCooley-BearCooLoloCeeColeyCooks
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International Variations10

ColeyCooleeCoooleyColleyCooleysonCooleCullyCooColyColeyah

Similar Names You Might Love9

Name Energy & Essence

The name Cooley carries the essence of “From the narrow passage or coal town” from English/Irish tradition. Names beginning with "C" often embody qualities of creativity, communication, and charm.

Symbolism

Cultural Significance

The name Cooley carries cultural weight especially in Irish history due to the Cooley Peninsula, known for the epic Táin Bó Cúailnge, an important piece of Irish mythology. As a surname turned given name, it connects individuals to ancestral roots, coal mining heritage, and Celtic legends. It symbolizes strength, resilience, and connection to land and tradition.

John Cooley

19th-century American naval officer and explorer known for his contributions to maritime navigation.

Thomas Cooley

18th-century Irish architect who influenced Georgian architecture in Dublin and beyond.

James Cooley

American mathematician known for co-developing the Cooley-Tukey Fast Fourier Transform algorithm.

Charles Cooley

American sociologist, known for his theory of the 'looking glass self' in social psychology.

William Cooley

Early settler and influential figure in Florida’s pioneer history.

John Cooley Palmer

American Civil War general known for his leadership and strategy.

Samuel Cooley

Noted 19th-century American inventor and industrialist.

Edward Cooley

Prominent British naturalist and author in the 19th century.

Cooley

🌐Spanish

Cooley

🌐French

Cooley

🌐German

Cooley

🌐Italian

クーリー (Kūrī)

🌐Japanese

库利 (Kùlì)

🌐Chinese

كولي

🌐Arabic

Fun Fact About Cooley

The Cooley Peninsula in Ireland, which shares the name, is famed for the legendary Cattle Raid of Cooley, a mythological story that inspired many Irish tales and cultural works.

Personality Traits for Cooley

Individuals named Cooley are often perceived as creative, grounded, and approachable. They tend to have a warm, friendly demeanor combined with a strong sense of loyalty and tradition. Cooleys may be adventurous yet thoughtful, with a natural curiosity and a knack for connecting with others on a personal level.

What does the name Cooley mean?

Cooley is a English/Irish name meaning “From the narrow passage or coal town”. Cooley is an English and Irish surname turned given name, often believed to derive from the Old English 'col' meaning 'coal' and 'leah' meaning 'clearing or meadow.' Historically, it referred to someone living near a coal clearing or narrow passage. In Irish, it is associated with the Cooley Peninsula, rich in folklore and ancient Celtic history.

How do you pronounce Cooley?

Cooley is pronounced (IPA: /ˈkuːli/). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.

What are nicknames for Cooley?

Popular nicknames for Cooley include: Cole, Lee, Cool, Coop, Cooley-Bear, Coo, Lolo, Cee, Coley, Cooks.

Who are famous people named Cooley?

Famous people named Cooley include: , , , , .

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Cooley is a beautiful English/Irish name meaning “From the narrow passage or coal town”. Cooley is an English and Irish surname turned given name, often believed to derive from the Old English 'col' meaning 'coal' and 'leah' meaning 'clearing or meadow.' Historically, it referred to someo...

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