Shirley, of Norman origin, is derived from 'Scir' meaning bright and 'Leah' meaning meadow. It gained popularity in the United States during the early 20th century, peaking in usage between the 1940s and 1960s. Shirley Temple, a popular child actress during this period, significantly contributed to its popularity. In literature, it is notably used as the first name of the protagonist in Charlotte Brontë's "Jane Eyre". Today, Shirley remains a classic choice, often preferred for its timeless charm and elegant simplicity.
"Shirley experienced varying popularity over the years, peaking at 11 births in 1963."