Manley
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Manley
Manley, which has 6 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of English origin.
Meaning of Manley
Man of the meadow
Manley is an English surname derived from a combination of the Old English words for "man" and "meadow" or "clearing". It is an occupational name for someone who worked in a meadow or clearing. The name can also mean "brave man" or "strong man".
| Meaning | Man of the meadow |
| Origin | English |
| Gender | Boy |
| Popularity (US) | #814 in 1927 Rising Fast |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Top 1000) |
| Era | Vintage (1900s) |
Background & History of The Name Manley
The name "Manley" is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word "maegen", meaning "strength" or "power". It is classified as a surname and can also be used as a given name for males. Manley is a patronymic name, meaning it was originally used to indicate that the person was the son of someone named Manley. The surname has different variations such as Manly, Manleigh, and Manlye.
Historically, the name Manley can be traced back to the Anglo-Saxon period in England. It was a common practice to use occupational or descriptive surnames to distinguish individuals. In the case of Manley, it likely originated from someone with a reputation for strength or power, whether physical or mental.
Today, Manley is still used as both a surname and a given name. As a given name, it often carries the connotation of strength and masculinity. There are notable individuals with the name Manley, such as Manley Augustus Buchanan, known by his stage name "Big Youth," a Jamaican reggae musician who was influential in the 1970s.
As a surname, Manley can be found in various parts of the world, including England, Ireland, Scotland, and the United States. The meaning and significance of the name may vary slightly across different cultures and regions. It is a name that has stood the test of time, and its usage continues to endure in modern society.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Manley over the years.
Similar English Baby Names
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Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Manley.
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