Hayley is a name of English origin, derived from the Old English word "haegen," which means "hawk." It is often used as a feminine given name and has gained popularity in recent years.
The use of Hayley as a given name can be traced back to the late Middle Ages, but it was not widely used until the 20th century. Today, it is considered a modern classic, with its popularity continuing to grow. According to data from the Social Security Administration, Hayley was among the top 1,000 most popular names for girls in the United States in recent years.
Hayley is often associated with several notable individuals, including actresses Hayley Mills and Hayley Atwell, as well as singer-songwriter Hayley Williams. These public figures have helped to increase the name's visibility and popularity.
In terms of its meaning, Hayley conveys a sense of strength and independence, perhaps due to its derivation from the word "hawk." However, it is important to note that the significance of a name can vary depending on cultural context and personal interpretation. Ultimately, the meaning of Hayley will be unique to each individual who bears the name.
In conclusion, Hayley is an English given name with an interesting history and a strong, independent meaning. Its popularity has grown steadily over the years, and it continues to be associated with notable individuals in various fields.
The name Hayley has been quite popular in the United States over the past few decades, with a total of 50,986 babies given this name since 1960.
During the early years of record-keeping, from 1960 to 1972, there were fewer than 100 births per year for girls named Hayley. However, starting in 1973, the number of annual births began to increase steadily. The most notable spike occurred between 1977 and 1982, with a total increase of over 4,500 births during this five-year period.
The year 1991 marked a significant turning point for the name Hayley, as it was the first time that more than 1,000 babies were given this name in a single year. This trend continued throughout the 1990s and into the early 2000s, with annual births reaching their peak in 2002 at an impressive 2,618.
However, after 2003, the popularity of the name Hayley began to decline gradually. By 2013, the number of annual births had dropped below 550, and this downward trend has continued in recent years. In fact, only 264 babies were named Hayley in the United States in 2023.
Despite its decline in popularity, the name Hayley remains a beloved choice among parents nationwide, with tens of thousands of individuals bearing this distinctive moniker.