What does Lindley mean and where does it come from?
Lindley is an English surname that has transitioned into a given name. Originally, it refers to a meadow where lime trees grow, derived from the Old English 'lind' meaning 'lime tree' and 'leah' meaning 'meadow or clearing.' This name is used for both genders but has become more associated with fema
Cultural significance
Lindley has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of lime tree meadow.
Peak popularity
Reached #1496 in 1988 — currently #797 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Lindley?
Lindley works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Lindley Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Lindley Rose
Floral · soft ending
Lindley Mae
Sweet · timeless
Lindley Claire
French influence · crisp
Lindley Jane
Literary · strong
Lindley Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Lindley right now?
Holding steady — currently #797 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #797 | 1,403 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #802 | 1,383 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #807 | 1,353 | ▲ up 5244 · +7021% births |
| 2020 | #6051 | 19 | ▼ down 1325 · -34% births |
| 2015 | #4726 | 29 | ▲ up 531 · +12% births |
| 2010 | #5257 | 26 | ▲ up 1906 · +63% births |
| 2005 | #7163 | 16 | ▲ up 447 · +23% births |
| 2000 | #7610 | 13 | ▲ up 2971 · +86% births |
| 1995 | #10581 | 7 | ▼ down 5509 · -61% births |
| 1990 | #5072 | 18 | ▲ up 890 · +64% births |
| 1980 | #5962 | 11 | ▲ up 685 · +120% births |
| 1965 | #6647 | 5 | ▼ down 857 · -17% births |
| 1960 | #5790 | 6 | ▼ down 363 · +20% births |
| 1950 | #5427 | 5 | ▼ down 731 |
| 1945 | #4696 | 5 | — |
The story of Lindley
Lindley entered American naming records in 1943 and has been in use for over 81 years. With 1,532 total births recorded, Lindley remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4696 in 1945 to #797 in 2023. Lindley is used for both genders: 59% female and 41% male.
Names that peaked alongside Lindley in 1988:
Lindley by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 6 | |
| 1900s | 5 | |
| 1910s | 92 | |
| 1920s | 117 | |
| 1930s | 104 | |
| 1940s | 129 | |
| 1950s | 112 | |
| 1960s | 93 | |
| 1970s | 58 | |
| 1980s | 231 | |
| 1990s | 112 | |
| 2000s | 172 | |
| 2010s ★ | 282 | |
| 2020s | 19 | |
💎With 1,532 total births, Lindley is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Lindley?
What names sound and feel like Lindley?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Lindley also consider these
Common questions about the name Lindley
What does the name Lindley mean?
Lindley means "Lime tree meadow" — 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 Lindley?
Lindley is currently ranked #797 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 Lindley?
Lindley 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.
How do you pronounce the name Lindley?
Lindley is a two-syllable name pronounced L IH1 N D L IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Lindley more of a girl or boy name?
Lindley is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.