Origin
The name Cassidy originates from Irish Gaelic roots, derived from the surname 'O Cassaidigh', meaning 'descendant of Cassáid', with 'Cassáid' possibly linked to the Gaelic word 'cass' meaning 'curly'. It entered English-speaking usage as a given name and surname in Ireland before spreading internationally, including to Australia. In Irish history, the surname was prominent among Gaelic families, and later adopted as a given name in honour of family heritage.
Meaning
Literal translation relates to 'curly-haired' or 'descendant of the curly-haired one'. In the Australian context, it symbolises resilience and adaptability, often associated with the pioneering spirit linked to Irish emigrants building identities in Australia.
Pronunciation
/ˈkæs.ɪ.di/ (KASS-ih-dee) with stress on the first syllable, pronounced similarly across Australian English, maintaining clarity and simplicity in pronunciation.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Cassey
- Cassie
- Cass��
Nicknames
- Cass
- Cassie
- Cassy
Name Days
- 03 April (Irish Name Day)
- 17 March (St. Patrick’s Day) – Celebrated in Australia as part of Irish cultural festivities.
- 17 March (Māori and Irish cultural exchange celebrations, where Irish names are appreciated)
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with cassidy:
- Megan and Cassidy
- Olivia and Cassidy
- Grace and Cassidy
Fun Facts
- The name Cassidy gained popularity in Australia during the late 20th century, partly influenced by mainstream media and Australian pop culture.
- Cassidy is also associated with Australian music, notably the singer-songwriter David Cassidy, whose international fame in the 1970s influenced variant familiarity.
- In Australian pet naming trends, Cassidy has become popular for naming dogs and cats, symbolising spirited and lively animals.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name cassidy:
- Energetic
- Friendly
- Resilient
- Spirited
- Adventurous
Aesthetic Qualities
The name has a crisp, modern aesthetic appealing to contemporary Australian sensibilities, with visually balanced spelling and phonetic clarity that renders it attractive for branding, personal branding, and artistic endeavours.
Geographical Distribution
More commonly found in urban and coastal regions of Australia, particularly in New South Wales and Victoria, reflecting migratory patterns and cultural influences from Irish and broader Anglo-Celtic communities.
Numerological Significance
Name number 6, associated with harmony, nurturing, and responsibility. It encourages balance and compassion, reflecting the Australian cultural value of mateship.
Astrological Connections
Often linked to the zodiac sign Cancer, associated with nurturing, loyalty, and emotional depth, aligning with qualities attributed to the name Cassidy.
Historical Context
Notable Australian figures include Cassidy Rae (actress) and the more recent influence of musician David Cassidy, whose international stardom in the 1970s influenced Australian popular culture. The name appears in fictional contexts in Australian literature and television, often used for characters embodying vibrant, spirited personalities.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name faces minimal adaptation issues; it is easily pronounceable and spelled consistently across English, Irish, and Māori scripts, though pronunciation may shift slightly in Irish Gaelic contexts.
Famous People Named cassidy
- David Cassidy (Singer & Actor) – International fame and cultural influence in Australia.
- Cassidy McGill (Australian Athlete) – Known for sporting achievements.
- Cassidy Vega (Australian musician) – Rising star in the indie music scene.
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
---|---|
2024 | 1 |
2017 | 8 |
2016 | 1 |
2015 | 1 |