“Halley is an English name derived from the Old English 'haegl' (hay) and 'leah' (clearing or meadow)”
American origin · Unisex name
♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls
#1244US 2023
956Births / yr
→Stable
4kAll-time births
📅 Since 191000.02% of births at peak
What does Halley mean and where does it come from?
Halley is an English name derived from the Old English 'haegl' (hay) and 'leah' (clearing or meadow). This name traditionally denotes someone who lived near a hay clearing. The name gained popularity as a surname before transitioning into a first name, particularly in the United States and the Unite
Cultural significance
Halley has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of old english.
Holding steady — currently #1244 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1910–2023#1244 · Top 0.92%
1925
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1244
956
▲ up 5 · +2% births
2022
#1249
936
▲ up 5 · +3% births
2021
#1254
906
▲ up 2730 · +2489% births
2020
#3984
35
▼ down 391 · -19% births
2015
#3593
43
▼ down 684 · -27% births
2010
#2909
59
▼ down 876 · -36% births
2005
#2033
92
▼ down 897 · -49% births
2000
#1136
180
▼ down 38 · +11% births
1995
#1098
162
▲ up 987 · +157% births
1990
#2085
63
▼ down 1053 · -57% births
1985
#1032
146
▲ up 3745 · +873% births
1980
#4777
15
▲ up 822 · +50% births
1975
#5599
10
▼ down 104 · +11% births
1970
#5495
9
▼ down 1303 · +29% births
1925
#4192
7
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Halley
1985Rank #1032
956
#2806
↗Rising
1910 - 202317 years
The story of Halley
Halley entered American naming records in 1910 and has been in use for over 114 years. With 3,999 total births recorded, Halley remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1520 in 1910 to #1244 in 2023. Halley is used for both genders: 97% female and 3% male.
Halley means "Old English" — 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 Halley?
Halley 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 Halley?
Halley 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 Halley a common or rare name?
Halley is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Halley more of a girl or boy name?
Halley 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 Halley
For a sister
Halley & Madison♡
Halley & Weston♡
Halley & Micah♡
Halley & Savannah♡
For a brother
Halley & Matthew♡
Halley & Madison♡
Halley & Wesley♡
Halley & Weston♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#1244
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
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