Sharley is a unique and uncommon female given name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Scottish surname "Sharpe," which was originally an occupational name for a sharpener of tools or cutlery. The name has been used as a given name in Scotland since the late Middle Ages, but it remains relatively rare today.
The meaning of Sharley is unclear, as it does not have any known direct translation or symbolic significance. However, its Scottish origin and historic usage suggest that it may have been chosen for its distinctive sound or to honor someone with the surname Sharpe.
Throughout history, there are few notable individuals named Sharley. One example is Sharley Boyle, a Canadian artist born in 1956 who is known for her abstract paintings and mixed media works. Despite its rarity as a given name, Sharley has been used by some families as an alternative to more common names like Charlotte or Shirley.
In literature and popular culture, there are no significant characters named Sharley that have contributed to the name's popularity or perception. As such, Sharley remains an uncommon and distinctive choice for a female given name, often favored by parents looking for something unique and memorable for their daughter.
Overall, Sharley is an uncommon Scottish female given name with a historic occupational origin. While its meaning is unclear, its unique sound and Scottish heritage make it an attractive option for those seeking a distinctive name for their child. Despite its rarity, there are some notable individuals named Sharley, particularly in the art world, who have helped to maintain its presence in popular culture.
The name Sharley has been used inconsistently over the years in the United States, with a total of 156 babies given this name since 1927. The highest number of births occurred in recent years, with 8 babies named Sharley in 2010. However, there were also several years where only one or two babies were given this name. For instance, in 1934 and 1951-1961, only one baby was named Sharley each year. This shows that the popularity of the name Sharley has varied significantly over time, with periods of both high and low usage.