Ainsley is a unique and distinctive given name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic word "Aindreas," which means "manly" or "virile." The name Ainsley has been used historically as both a masculine and feminine given name, although it is more commonly used for males today.
The name Ainsley has a rich history in Scotland, with several notable individuals throughout history bearing the name. One of the most famous was Sir William Ainslie, who served as a Scottish general during the 18th century. Today, the name continues to be popular among families in Scotland and beyond, thanks to its strong connection to Scottish heritage and culture.
Overall, the name Ainsley is an excellent choice for parents looking for a distinctive and meaningful given name with deep roots in Scottish history. Its unique sound and powerful meaning make it a standout option for both boys and girls.
The popularity of the name Ainsley has seen significant fluctuations over time. It started off relatively uncommon with less than 10 births per year from 1961 to 1978. However, it gained traction in the late 70s and early 80s, reaching a peak of 23 births in 1982. This trend continued through the 80s and 90s, with the name becoming increasingly popular each year. The highest point was reached in 2001 with 578 births. Since then, while the number has fluctuated, it remains consistently high, with over 600 births per year until 2019, after which there's a significant drop to 496 births in 2023. Overall, since 1961, there have been a total of 19,445 births registered as Ainsley.