Ailey

“noble or intelligent”

American origin · Girl name

♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls

#6929US 2023

16Births / yr

↓Falling

853All-time births

📅 Since 199200

What does Ailey mean and where does it come from?

Ailey is a modern name that has gained popularity in recent years, particularly influenced by the renowned Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, named after the African American choreographer Alvin Ailey. The name Ailey can also be seen as a variation of the Irish name Ailbhe, which means 'white' or '

Cultural significance

Ailey has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of noble or intelligent.

Peak popularity

Reached #2625 in 2008 — currently #6929 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Ailey?

Ailey works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Ailey Grace

How popular is Ailey right now?

Falling — down 1617 spots — currently #6929 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 2000–2023#6929 · Top 5.1%

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#6929	16	▼ down 1617 · -33% births
2022	#5312	24	▼ down 347 · -8% births
2021	#4965	26	▲ up 237 · +8% births
2020	#5202	24	▼ down 2005 · -54% births
2015	#3197	52	▼ down 480 · -21% births
2010	#2717	66	▲ up 3728 · +247% births
2005	#6445	19	▲ up 3240 · +90% births
2000	#9685	10	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Ailey

Best Year2010Rank #2717

Peak Count66

Average Rank#5557

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range2000 - 20238 years

The story of Ailey

Ailey is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1992. With 853 total births recorded, Ailey remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #9685 in 2000 to #6929 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Ailey in 2008:

Emma Isabella Emily Olivia Ava

Ailey by decade

Ailey peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →

Decade	Births
1990s	30
2000s	302
2010s ★	497
2020s	24

💎Ailey has only 853 total recorded births since 1992 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Ailey?

Common

AilAilieAily

What names sound and feel like Ailey?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Ailey also consider these

Aizley

American · A unique or

Aivley

American · Island meadow

Hailey

American · From the hay

Ailet

American · A contemporary variation

Mailey

American · English

Jailey

American · a modern blend

Cailey

American · Slender

Sailey

American · from the sea

Common questions about the name Ailey

What does the name Ailey mean?

Ailey means "noble or intelligent" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.

How popular is the name Ailey?

Ailey is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.

What is the cultural origin of Ailey?

Ailey originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.

Is Ailey a common or rare name?

Ailey is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.

What are good nicknames for Ailey?

Ailey naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.