Staley, of English origin, is a rare and distinctive given name for males. It emerged from the medieval English surname 'Staley,' which itself derived from the Old English word 'stæl' meaning 'steel.' The name Staley was initially used as a nickname for someone who was tough, steadfast, or skilled in metalwork. Over time, it evolved into a given name, though it remains relatively uncommon compared to other names of its type.
The name Staley experienced a steady increase in popularity from the late 20th century to the early 21st century, with a significant spike in recent years.