Waverly
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Waverly
Waverly, which has 7 letters and 3 syllables, is a female name of English origin.
Meaning of Waverly
Quaking aspen
Waverly is an English name derived from an Old English place name meaning "from the quivering meadow." It is also associated with the phrase "wavering meadow" and can be used as a unisex name.
| Meaning | Quaking aspen |
| Origin | English |
| Gender | Girl |
| Popularity (US) | #916 in 2024 Declining |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Top 1000) |
| Era | Modern (peaked 2020) |
Background & History of The Name Waverly
The name 'Waverly' is of English origin and is derived from the surname 'Waverley.' It is considered a unisex name, meaning it can be given to both boys and girls. 'Waverly' became popular as a first name during the 19th century and has maintained its appeal ever since. The name is known for its poetic and graceful sound, evoking a sense of elegance and sophistication.
One possible meaning associated with the name 'Waverly' is 'meadow of quivering aspens.' The word 'waver' refers to the shivering or trembling of the aspen leaves, giving the name a unique and nature-oriented connotation. Additionally, 'Waverly' is sometimes considered a variant of the Old English name 'Walfare,' which means 'to wander' or 'to wave.' This interpretation further adds to the name's sense of movement and a free-spirited nature.
Notably, the name 'Waverly' gained significant popularity after the release of the novel 'Waverley' by Sir Walter Scott in 1814. The book tells the story of a young Englishman named Edward Waverley, and its success contributed to the adoption of the name as a first name rather than just a surname. The novel's influence on the popularity of the name 'Waverly' extended beyond literature, with many parents choosing it for their children as a homage to the novel and its characters.
Overall, the name 'Waverly' offers a unique blend of elegance, nature references, and literary significance. Its soft, melodic syllables make it appealing to many parents looking for a timeless and sophisticated choice for their child's name.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Waverly over the years.
Similar English Baby Names
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Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Waverly.
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