Ashley is a popular given name of English origin, derived from the Old English word "æsc" which means "ash tree". The name was initially used as a surname before becoming more common as a given name for girls in the late 20th century.
The name Ashley has been popular throughout history. It was first recorded as a masculine given name in the Domesday Book of 1086, a great survey of England and Wales ordered by William the Conqueror. However, it is most famously associated with the character Ashley Wilkes in Margaret Mitchell's novel "Gone with the Wind" published in 1936.
Ashley has also been used as a unisex name, with notable figures such as Ashley Judd, an American actress, and Ashley Cole, an English footballer, bearing this name. Despite its popularity, the name remains versatile and can be found across various cultures and communities around the world.
In terms of popularity, Ashley peaked in the 1980s and 1990s, ranking among the top ten names for girls during these decades in several English-speaking countries including the United States. Today, it continues to be a widely recognized name but has somewhat declined in popularity compared to its peak years.
Overall, Ashley is a name with a rich history and a versatile character, making it a popular choice for parents looking for a name that combines tradition with modernity.
Ashley is a popular name for girls in the United States, with a significant number of babies being named Ashley each year. According to statistics from the Social Security Administration, there were 5 births with the name Ashleigh in the United States in 2004.
While this may seem like a small number, it's important to consider that thousands of babies are born every day in the US, making the name Ashleigh quite rare compared to more common names. However, for those who do choose the name Ashleigh for their daughter, they can be proud to know that they've chosen a unique and distinctive name.
Moreover, the name Ashleigh has been consistently popular over time, with at least one baby being named Ashleigh every year since records began in 1950. This indicates that the name has enduring appeal and is likely to continue to be popular for generations to come.
Overall, while the statistics show that the name Ashleigh is not among the most common in the United States, it remains a beloved and meaningful choice for parents who wish to give their daughter a unique and memorable name.