Cassidy

Unisex
Pronunciation:/ˈkæs.ɪ.di/

Cassidy: a unisex name of Irish (Gaelic) origin meaning "It is a female given name of modern American usage, derived from the Irish surname “Ó Caiside,” meaning “descendent of Caiside,” from the Old Irish byname meaning “curly-haired". It derives from the Irish (Gaelic) word "Ó Caiside > CAISIDE".

The name Cassidy carries a rich history rooted in Irish (Gaelic) culture. Derived from "Ó Caiside > CAISIDE", this both name embodies the essence of It is a female given name of modern American usage, derived from the Irish surname “Ó Caiside,” meaning “descendent of Caiside,” from the Old Irish byname meaning “curly-haired. Its linguistic journey through centuries reflects the cultural values and traditions of Irish (Gaelic)-speaking communities.

Quick Facts About Cassidy

Quick facts about Cassidy
OriginIrish (Gaelic)
GenderUnisex
PopularityModerately popular

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

It is a female given name of modern American usage, derived from the Irish surname “Ó Caiside,” meaning “descendent of Caiside,” from the Old Irish byname meaning “curly-haired.” The Ó Caiside family was native of what is now County Fermanagh, where they were poets, churchmen, scholars, and hereditary physicians to the Maguire Kings of Fer Manach.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

Ó Caiside > CAISIDE

How to Pronounce Cassidy

Cassidy is pronounced /ˈkæs.ɪ.di/

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Cas-sid-y
  2. Say it like: "CAS-SID-Y"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Cassidy is predominantly used in english speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.

english
Frequently Asked Questions About Cassidy
What does the name Cassidy mean?
Cassidy means "It is a female given name of modern American usage, derived from the Irish surname “Ó Caiside,” meaning “descendent of Caiside,” from the Old Irish byname meaning “curly-haired.” The Ó Caiside family was native of what is now County Fermanagh, where they were poets, churchmen, scholars, and hereditary physicians to the Maguire Kings of Fer Manach.". The name comes from Ó Caiside > CAISIDE. This irish (gaelic) name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Cassidy for children of any gender often connect with the name's meaning of "It is a female given name of modern American usage, derived from the Irish surname “Ó Caiside,” meaning “descendent of Caiside,” from the Old Irish byname meaning “curly-haired.” The Ó Caiside family was native of what is now County Fermanagh, where they were poets, churchmen, scholars, and hereditary physicians to the Maguire Kings of Fer Manach." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Cassidy's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Cassidy?
Cassidy is a irish (gaelic) name. The name traces back to Ó Caiside > CAISIDE. The name remains closely tied to english naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The irish (gaelic) meaning "It is a female given name of modern American usage, derived from the Irish surname “Ó Caiside,” meaning “descendent of Caiside,” from the Old Irish byname meaning “curly-haired.” The Ó Caiside family was native of what is now County Fermanagh, where they were poets, churchmen, scholars, and hereditary physicians to the Maguire Kings of Fer Manach." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Cassidy a boy or girl name?
Cassidy is a unisex name, given to both boys and girls. Unisex names have grown more popular since the 1990s, with parents choosing them for flexibility and modern appeal. Cassidy works equally well for any child, letting the person's identity shape how the name feels rather than the other way around. In irish (gaelic) tradition, Cassidy has historically been given to children of either gender. The meaning "It is a female given name of modern American usage, derived from the Irish surname “Ó Caiside,” meaning “descendent of Caiside,” from the Old Irish byname meaning “curly-haired.” The Ó Caiside family was native of what is now County Fermanagh, where they were poets, churchmen, scholars, and hereditary physicians to the Maguire Kings of Fer Manach." carries well for any child, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Cassidy?
Cassidy is pronounced "/ˈkæs.ɪ.di/". This pronunciation follows ga language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Cassidy is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with irish (gaelic) names, listening to a native speaker say Cassidy can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Cassidy?
Cassidy is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Cassidy offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Cassidy's popularity may vary between irish (gaelic) communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "It is a female given name of modern American usage, derived from the Irish surname “Ó Caiside,” meaning “descendent of Caiside,” from the Old Irish byname meaning “curly-haired.” The Ó Caiside family was native of what is now County Fermanagh, where they were poets, churchmen, scholars, and hereditary physicians to the Maguire Kings of Fer Manach." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among unisex names, Cassidy holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Cassidy commonly used?
Cassidy is used primarily in english naming traditions. Though irish (gaelic) in origin, Cassidy found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "It is a female given name of modern American usage, derived from the Irish surname “Ó Caiside,” meaning “descendent of Caiside,” from the Old Irish byname meaning “curly-haired.” The Ó Caiside family was native of what is now County Fermanagh, where they were poets, churchmen, scholars, and hereditary physicians to the Maguire Kings of Fer Manach." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Cassidy into their naming traditions. A child named Cassidy will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Cassidy is given to children of any gender, maintaining consistent gender association.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

Similar Names

Explore More Names