📅 Since 1917🏆 38 years in top 1002.32% of births at peak
How to pronounce Ashley
ASHL·ee
/ˈæʃl.iː/ · stress on ASHL · 2 syllables
“Ash tree clearing”
United Kingdom origin · Girl name
What does Ashley mean and where does it come from?
Ashley originated as a surname derived from Old English, meaning 'ash tree clearing' or 'meadow'. It gained popularity as a first name for females in the 20th century, particularly in the United States. The name became widespread due to cultural influences such as the character Ashley Wilkes from 'G
Cultural significance
Ashley has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in United Kingdom-speaking communities, where it reflects values of ash tree clearing.
Peak popularity
Reached #1 in 1991 — currently #126 in the US.
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Related Reading
United Kingdom-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Rising — up 28 spots — currently #126 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1945–2023#126 · Top 0.09%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#126
2,182
▲ up 28 · +17% births
2022
#154
1,863
▲ up 18 · +10% births
2021
#172
1,700
▼ down 18 · -5% births
2020
#154
1,784
▼ down 69 · -48% births
2015
#85
3,424
▼ down 56 · -46% births
2010
#29
6,314
▼ down 19 · -52% births
2005
#10
13,274
▼ down 6 · -26% births
2000
#4
17,997
▼ down 2 · -32% births
1995
#2
26,602
stable · -42% births
1990
#2
45,560
stable · -3% births
1985
#2
47,007
▲ up 38 · +544% births
1980
#40
7,297
▲ up 98 · +267% births
1975
#138
1,989
▲ up 167 · +114% births
1970
#305
930
▲ up 363 · +327% births
1965
#668
218
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Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Ashley
1985Rank #2
47,007
#705
↗Rising
1945 - 202319 years
The story of Ashley
Ashley entered American naming records in 1917 and has been in use for over 107 years. It reached the #1 spot in 1991, making it the most popular girl name in America that year. Over 866K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2943 in 1945 to #126 in 2023. Ashley is used for both genders: 98% female and 2% male.
Ashley means "Ash tree clearing" — a name rooted in United Kingdom 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 Ashley?
Ashley is currently ranked #126 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Ashley?
Ashley originates from United Kingdom tradition. United Kingdom names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Ashley?
Ashley is a two-syllable name pronounced AE1 SH L IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Ashley more of a girl or boy name?
Ashley is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with Ashley
For a sister
Ashley & Toyah♡
Ashley & Jessica♡
Ashley & Trevor♡
Ashley & Lillian♡
For a brother
Ashley & Edwind♡
Ashley & Richardjames♡
Ashley & Talbott♡
Ashley & Trevor♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#126
🇬🇧 UK
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🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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