Origin and Meaning of Ashley
Meaning & Origin
Dweller by the Ash Tree Meadow
Origin: Old English - The name is derived from the Old English words 'æsc' meaning 'ash tree' and 'leah' meaning 'meadow' or 'clearing'.
Interesting Facts
- Ashley was originally used as a surname and a masculine given name before becoming popular as a feminine name in the late 20th century.
- In the United States, Ashley became particularly popular in the 1980s and 1990s, often used for girls and is considered a unisex name.
- Notable bearers of the name include Ashley Judd, an American actress, and Ashley Tisdale, a singer and actress known for her role in the 'High School Musical' series.
- Ashley was the most popular name for girls in the United States during the 1990s and has ranked in the top 50 names for girls since.
- Variations and related names include Ashlee, Ashleigh, and Ashly, showcasing different phonetics while retaining the same origin.