Where does the name COREY come from?

[Foxglove]

Have noticed a lot of children called COREY lately. Where does this name come from and why is it so popular at the moment? And while I'm here, what's wrong with some of our beautiful, traditional British names?

[lankeela]

I have been watching the 'pub quiz' show 'Fact Hunt' for weeks and only last night realised the implications of saying it quickly!

[twopennorth]

Names like Corey are of Celtic origin, and part of a general revival in this direction.

In Northern Ireland more children are getting traditional Irish names due to the peace process. During the troubles parents were more likely to opt for a more neutral name. (My cousin Ciaran told me that during one football match he was kicked up and down the pitch because of his "catholic" name.)

My children have Celtic names of Breton origin - their father grew up in Brittany. Statistics are available online for all names registered in France. There is a clear pattern of Celtic names becoming more popular from the 1960s onwards. Prior to this it would be common for Bretons to register their child with the French from of the chosen name, even if they would be known by the Breton version. I don't think that would happen very much now.

At school my son as friends named Rory, Niamh, and Callum. All good Celtic names. But just to show the traditions of England are not given up just yet, James, Thomas and George seem very popular.

p.s What about Jermajesty and Pilot Inspektor as all time worst names for children?