meaning of ashley



Added: 25 December 2024 / Edit: 27 December 2024

The name Ashley is of English origin and is commonly used as both a given name for girls and boys, although it has historically been more popular for females. The name is derived from an Old English word 'æsc' which means 'ash tree.' The suffix '-ley' or '-ly' is a common element in English place names, indicating a clearing or meadow, so Ashley can be interpreted as 'ash tree clearing' or 'meadow of ash trees.'
Ashley gained popularity as a given name in the 20th century and became particularly popular in the United States during the 1980s and 1990s. It's a versatile and unisex name that has been widely used, and it may have different variations and spellings.