📅 Since 1916🏆 16 years in top 1000.29% of births at peak
How to pronounce Bailey
BAY·lee
/ˈbeɪ.liː/ · stress on BAY · 2 syllables
“bailiff, steward”
English origin · Unisex name
What does Bailey mean and where does it come from?
Bailey is a name of English origin, derived from the Old French word 'bailli' meaning bailiff or steward, which referred to an officer of the court. The name has been used for both boys and girls, although it has become predominantly feminine in recent years. Its use as a surname has transitioned in
Cultural significance
Bailey has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of bailiff, steward.
Rising — up 10 spots — currently #172 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1925–2023#172 · Top 0.13%
1925
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#172
1,682
▲ up 10 · +2% births
2022
#182
1,648
▼ down 20 · -7% births
2021
#162
1,774
▲ up 9 · +7% births
2020
#171
1,653
▼ down 64 · -42% births
2015
#107
2,844
▼ down 29 · -21% births
2010
#78
3,595
▲ up 30 · +20% births
2005
#108
2,990
▼ down 40 · -36% births
2000
#68
4,648
▲ up 28 · +33% births
1995
#96
3,488
▲ up 131 · +177% births
1990
#227
1,259
▲ up 387 · +309% births
1985
#614
308
▲ up 1321 · +460% births
1980
#1935
55
▲ up 7176 · +1000% births
1975
#9111
5
▼ down 4665 · -17% births
1925
#4446
6
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Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Bailey
2000Rank #68
4,648
#1248
↗Rising
1925 - 202314 years
The story of Bailey
Bailey entered American naming records in 1916 and has been in use for over 108 years. Its peak popularity was #60 in 1998. More than 123,520 babies have been named Bailey since 1916. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4446 in 1925 to #172 in 2023. Bailey is used for both genders: 83% female and 17% male.
Bailey means "bailiff, steward" — a name rooted in English 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 Bailey?
Bailey is currently ranked #172 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 Bailey?
Bailey originates from English tradition. English 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 Bailey?
Bailey is a two-syllable name pronounced B EY1 L IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Bailey more of a girl or boy name?
Bailey 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 Bailey
For a sister
Bailey & Harper♡
Bailey & Emily♡
Bailey & Ella♡
Bailey & Genesis♡
For a brother
Bailey & Angel♡
Bailey & Christian♡
Bailey & Hadley♡
Bailey & Legend♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#172
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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