I. ˈkelē, -li noun
( -es )
Etymology: probably by folk eytmology (influence of the name Kelly ) from callow
: the topsoil removed in order to secure clay for brickmaking
II. transitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-es )
: to cover (as a molding floor for bricks) with kelly
III.
or kel·lie “
variant of killie
IV. noun
( plural kellies or kellys )
Etymology: probably from the name Kelly
: a man's stiff hat (as a derby or a flat-topped straw hat)
only the dudes wore straw kellies — New Yorker
V. noun
or kelly green
Usage: often capitalized K
Etymology: from the common Irish name Kelly; from green's being a traditional Irish color
: a variable color averaging a strong yellowish green that is greener and duller than cyprus green and greener, stronger, and slightly lighter than emerald (sense 2b)
comes in red, kelly , white, or black — Women's Wear Daily
VI. noun
( -s )
Etymology: probably alteration of English dialect kelp, of unknown origin
Australia : crow
gave the kellys a rare blessing and left them to their feast — Sydney (Australia) Bulletin
VII. noun
also kelly joint
( -s )
Etymology: probably from the name Kelly
: grief stem