Shelley is a unisex given name of English origin. It is derived from the surname Shelley, which is believed to have originated as a place name for various locations in England. The most notable being Shelley in Buckinghamshire.
The meaning of the name Shelley is not entirely clear, but it is thought to be derived from Old English words meaning "bright" or "fair," and "clearing" or "meadow." Therefore, Shelley could mean "bright meadow" or "fair clearing."
The use of Shelley as a given name is relatively recent. It began to gain popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly among parents who were fans of literature. The most famous Shelley is likely the English Romantic poet Percy Bysshe Shelley (1792-1822), whose works include "Ode to the West Wind" and "Prometheus Unbound." His wife, also named Shelley, was a novelist and short-story writer known for her work "Frankenstein."
Today, Shelley is still used as a given name for both boys and girls. It has a timeless appeal due to its association with literature and its beautiful meaning. Despite its popularity, it remains relatively uncommon, making it a unique choice for parents looking for a distinctive name.
In terms of its usage around the world, Shelley is primarily found in English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. However, it can be found in other countries as well due to its international literary fame.
Overall, the name Shelley has a rich history tied to literature and nature. Its meaning adds to its appeal, making it an attractive choice for parents looking for a name with substance and beauty.
The name Shelley experienced a significant boom from the mid-1940s onwards, with a sharp increase from 413 births in 1948 to 1017 in 1949. This trend continued throughout the 1950s and 1960s, peaking at 2821 births in 1964. However, from the late 1960s onwards, there was a steady decline in the popularity of the name Shelley, with only 6 births recorded in 2022. Overall, there have been 72561 births with the name Shelley since 1892.