Tilley is a unique and distinctive given name of English origin. Its meaning and history are intertwined with the natural world, specifically the humble yet resilient plant known as a thistle.
The name Tilley is derived from the Old English word "þilie," which refers to the thistle plant. This spiky, flowering herb is native to Europe and has become a symbol of strength and endurance due to its ability to thrive in harsh conditions. The thistle is also associated with Scotland, where it is considered the national emblem.
In the past, Tilley was primarily used as a surname, with notable references dating back to medieval times. However, in recent years, there has been an increase in parents choosing Tilley as a given name for their daughters, likely due to its unique sound and nature-inspired origins.
Despite being a relatively uncommon name, Tilley carries a strong association with the natural world and the qualities of resilience and strength attributed to the thistle plant. Those who bear this name may find themselves drawn to the outdoors or inspired by the beauty and power of nature. Ultimately, Tilley is a unique and meaningful choice for parents looking for an uncommon yet significant name for their child.
The name Tilley has seen a notable increase in popularity over the past two decades in the United States. According to data from the Social Security Administration, there were only five babies named Tilley in 2005. However, by 2023, this number had risen significantly to 28 births.
The year 2014 marked a turning point for the name Tilley, with 17 babies being born that year compared to just eight in 2013. This trend continued upwards, reaching a peak of 28 births in 2023.
Interestingly, there were two years where the number of births with the name Tilley doubled from one year to the next: between 2019 and 2020 (from nine to 20 births), and again between 2020 and 2021 (from 11 to 21 births).
Overall, from 2005 to 2023, there have been a total of 203 babies named Tilley born in the United States. This steady increase over time suggests that the name Tilley is becoming more popular among parents choosing names for their children.