Barkley is an English surname that has been adapted for use as a given name in recent years. It originated from Old Norse elements, 'beorc' meaning birch tree and 'leah' signifying clearing or meadow. The name Barkley evokes images of nature and open spaces, suggesting a strong connection to the outdoors.
"The name Barkley experienced varied popularity throughout the 20th and early 21st centuries, with peaks in the late 1950s and early 1990s."