The name Chelsey is an English variant of the name Chelsea, which derives from the area of Chelsea in London, England. The name Chelsea itself originates from the Old English words "Chelcith" or "Chelchyth," meaning "chalk landing place" or "chalk wharf." This refers to the geography of the area, which was situated along the River Thames and known for its chalk beds.

The earliest recorded instance of the name Chelsea can be traced back to the late 11th century, when it appeared in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the village of "Chelchethe." Over time, the name evolved into its modern spelling of Chelsea and eventually gave rise to the variant spelling Chelsey.

One of the earliest notable individuals with the name Chelsey was Chelsey Culpeper (1600-1663), an English politician and Member of Parliament during the English Civil War. Another early bearer of the name was Chelsey Willoughby (1657-1728), a British landowner and Member of Parliament for Nottinghamshire.

In the 19th century, Chelsey Bonney (1819-1892) was a prominent American politician and lawyer who served as a judge in Illinois. Chelsey Brewer (1856-1932) was an American educator and advocate for women's higher education, serving as the president of Bradley University in Illinois.

A more recent historical figure with the name Chelsey was Chelsey Crisp (1919-2002), an Australian nurse and midwife who played a significant role in advancing maternal and child health services in rural areas of Australia.

While the name Chelsey has been used throughout history, it has remained relatively uncommon until more recent times. Its popularity has grown in the past few decades, likely influenced by its connection to the affluent area of Chelsea in London, as well as its similarity to the more established name Chelsea.