Bayleigh is a name of English origin that is derived from the Old Norse male given name Beorhtleic, which means "bright people's ruler." The name has been traditionally used as a male name but in recent years has also become popular for females.
The earliest record of the name Bayleigh can be traced back to the Domesday Book of 1086, where it was spelled "Beorhtleic" and was borne by a person living in Norfolk, England. Over time, the name evolved and became Bayleigh.
Historically, the name Bayleigh has been associated with royalty and nobility. It is believed that the name was brought to England by the Normans during their invasion in 1066 and was used by members of the Norman court. One notable bearer of the name was Beorhtleic II, who was a king of East Anglia in the late 9th century.
Today, Bayleigh is still a popular name in English-speaking countries, with its usage being more common for females than males. Despite its historical association with royalty, the name has a modern and sophisticated sound that appeals to many parents looking for unique names for their children. Overall, Bayleigh is a strong and regal-sounding name with an interesting history and a unique meaning.
"The name Bayleigh experienced significant popularity growth from 1995 onwards, peaking at 271 births in 2012 and maintaining high numbers until 2021 with a total of 5020 births recorded over the years."