What does Kingsley mean and where does it come from?
Kingsley is a name that can be used for both genders but is more commonly male. It originates from Old English, meaning 'king's meadow.' The name reflects nobility and land ownership. It has seen a resurgence in modern times, particularly in the United Kingdom and among English-speaking populations.
Cultural significance
Kingsley has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of king's meadow.
Peak popularity
Reached #1048 in 2020 — currently #1719 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Kingsley?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Kingsley?
Kingsley works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kingsley Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Kingsley John
One syllable · timeless choice
Kingsley Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Kingsley Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Kingsley Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
Kingsley Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Kingsley right now?
Declining — down 49 spots — currently #1719 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #1719 | 119 | ▼ down 49 · -3% births |
| 2024 | #1670 | 123 | ▼ down 820 · -57% births |
| 2023 | #850 | 285 | ▼ down 112 · -19% births |
| 2022 | #738 | 350 | ▼ down 35 · -6% births |
| 2021 | #703 | 374 | ▲ up 345 · +58% births |
| 2020 | #1048 | 237 | ▲ up 720 · +101% births |
| 2015 | #1768 | 118 | ▲ up 1754 · +162% births |
| 2010 | #3522 | 45 | ▲ up 4839 · +246% births |
| 2005 | #8361 | 13 | ▲ up 5177 · +160% births |
| 1995 | #13538 | 5 | — |
The story of Kingsley
Kingsley is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1977. With 6,583 total births recorded, Kingsley remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #13538 in 1995 to #850 in 2023. Kingsley is used for both genders: 20% female and 80% male.
Names that peaked alongside Kingsley in 2020:
Kingsley by decade
Kingsley peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1900s | 7 | |
| 1910s | 97 | |
| 1920s | 101 | |
| 1930s | 81 | |
| 1940s | 129 | |
| 1950s | 101 | |
| 1960s | 75 | |
| 1970s | 133 | |
| 1980s | 270 | |
| 1990s | 319 | |
| 2000s | 575 | |
| 2010s ★ | 4,035 | |
| 2020s | 1,327 | |
💎With 6,583 total births, Kingsley is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Kingsley?
What names sound and feel like Kingsley?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kingsley also consider these
Common questions about the name Kingsley
What does the name Kingsley mean?
Kingsley means "king's meadow" — 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 Kingsley?
Kingsley is currently ranked #850 as a baby 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 Kingsley?
Kingsley 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 Kingsley?
Kingsley is a two-syllable name pronounced KINGZL-ee. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Kingsley a common or rare name?
Kingsley is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.