The name Kaley is a feminine given name of English origin, derived from the Old English word "cæli" or "cælig," meaning "chalice" or "cup." This name was initially used as a surname, referring to someone who was a maker or seller of chalices or cups.

In the Middle Ages, the name Kaley was sometimes used as a diminutive or pet form of the name Cecilia, which was a popular name among early Christian martyrs. Cecilia was the patron saint of music and musicians, and her name was derived from the Roman family name "Caecilius."

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Kaley can be found in the Domesday Book, a comprehensive record of landowners and tenants in England commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1086. The name appeared as "Calei" or "Calai," likely referring to someone associated with the chalice trade or industry.

In the 13th century, a notable historical figure named Kaley de Courtenay lived in England. She was a noblewoman and the wife of Sir Hugh de Courtenay, a prominent military leader during the reign of King Henry III.

Another famous bearer of the name Kaley was Kaley Cuoco, an American actress born in 1985. She is best known for her role as Penny on the popular sitcom "The Big Bang Theory," which aired from 2007 to 2019.

In literature, the name Kaley was used for a character in the novel "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho, published in 1988. Kaley was a young woman who accompanied the protagonist on his journey to find his Personal Legend.

Other notable individuals with the name Kaley include Kaley Cuoco-Sweeting (born 1985), an American actress and producer; Kaley Hay (born 1992), an Australian swimmer; and Kaley Pearson (born 1996), an American soccer player.

The name Kaley has been used throughout history, albeit not as commonly as some other names. Its origins can be traced back to Old English, and it has been associated with various trades, religious figures, and literary characters over the centuries.