Markley is of American origin, derived from an Old English surname that means 'young male deer'. It is a unique and distinctive name, often given to celebrate nature or the outdoors. The name Markley has a strong, robust sound, reflecting its derivation from the powerful stag. It is also associated with the vibrant colors of fall foliage, as 'mark' in Old English translates to 'boundary' or 'limit', suggesting the edges of forests and the changing seasons. Despite its rare usage today, Markley was once quite popular in the United States during the late 19th century. It is often spelled variously as Markley, Markli, Markeley, or even Markey, demonstrating its adaptability and versatility. The name Markley has been carried by notable figures throughout history, including American politicians and authors, further adding to its rich heritage.
Markley as a given name saw limited usage throughout the mid-20th century, with spikes occurring specifically in the years 1953 and 1958 when seven and six babies named Markley were born respectively. The name's popularity was relatively consistent over time, as evidenced by the similar numbers of births in those three years. However, it is important to note that overall, the name Markley was not extremely common during this period, with a total of only 24 births recorded between 1931 and 1965.