What does Baily mean and where does it come from?
The name Baily is derived from the Old French word 'bailli,' meaning 'bailiff' or 'steward.' It has grown in popularity in English-speaking countries, particularly in the 20th century. The name can also be a variant of Bailey, which originally referred to someone living near a bailey, an outer wall
Cultural significance
Baily has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of bailiff or steward.
Peak popularity
Reached #1677 in 1997 — currently #11092 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Baily?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Baily?
Baily works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Baily Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Baily John
One syllable · timeless choice
Baily Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Baily Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Baily Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
Baily Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Baily right now?
Falling — down 3440 spots — currently #11092 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #11092 | 8 | ▼ down 3440 · -43% births |
| 2024 | #7652 | 14 | ▼ down 5692 · -94% births |
| 2023 | #1960 | 240 | ▲ up 5 · +9% births |
| 2022 | #1965 | 220 | ▲ up 5 · +16% births |
| 2021 | #1970 | 190 | ▲ up 13656 · +3700% births |
| 2020 | #15626 | 5 | ▼ down 8542 · -71% births |
| 2015 | #7084 | 17 | ▼ down 3699 · -65% births |
| 2010 | #3385 | 48 | ▼ down 38 · +4% births |
| 2005 | #3347 | 46 | ▼ down 1194 · -39% births |
| 2000 | #2153 | 75 | ▲ up 238 · +36% births |
| 1995 | #2391 | 55 | ▲ up 1415 · +96% births |
| 1990 | #3806 | 28 | ▲ up 3133 · +180% births |
| 1985 | #6939 | 10 | — |
The story of Baily
Baily is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1984. With 1,763 total births recorded, Baily remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #6939 in 1985 to #1960 in 2023. Baily is used for both genders: 76% female and 24% male.
Names that peaked alongside Baily in 1997:
Baily by decade
Baily peaked in the 1990s. See all 1990s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1980s | 82 | |
| 1990s ★ | 772 | |
| 2000s | 683 | |
| 2010s | 221 | |
| 2020s | 27 | |
💎With 1,763 total births, Baily is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Baily?
What names sound and feel like Baily?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Baily also consider these
Common questions about the name Baily
What does the name Baily mean?
Baily means "bailiff or 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 Baily?
Baily is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Baily?
Baily 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.
Is Baily a common or rare name?
Baily is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Baily more of a girl or boy name?
Baily is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.