Blakely is a unique and distinctive given name of American origin. It is believed to have been created as a feminine form of the surname Blackley, which was derived from Old English words 'blæc' meaning black, and 'leah' referring to a clearing or wood. Therefore, the name Blakely is thought to mean "from the dark wooded clearing."
The name Blakely first gained popularity in the late 19th century, but it was not until the 20th century that it began to be used as a feminine given name. Today, Blakely is considered a modern and stylish choice for parents looking for an uncommon yet meaningful name for their daughter.
While there are no well-known historical figures named Blakely, the name has been carried by several notable individuals in recent times. For instance, American actress and model Emily Blunt was briefly known as Emily Blakely early in her career before she changed it back to her original surname.
In literature, the name Blakely appears in several works, such as "The House of Black and White" by Barbara Hambly, where the main character is named Blakely Blackwood. This further contributes to the growing popularity and recognition of the name Blakely.
Overall, Blakely is a unique and interesting name with a rich history and meaningful origin. Its uncommon usage makes it an excellent choice for parents seeking a distinctive name for their daughter that stands out from the crowd.
The name Blakely saw a steady increase in popularity from the late 1960s to the early 2020s, with a significant jump in recent years. Between 1969 and 2023, there have been a total of 17,253 babies named Blakely. The year 2023 saw the highest number of births with that name, at 1854.