Linley

“Dweller by the flax meadow”

England origin · Unisex name

♂ 6% boys♀ 94% girls

#1089US 2023

1.1kBirths / yr

→Stable

1.4kAll-time births

📅 Since 195200

How to pronounce Linley

LINL·ee

/ˈlɪnl.iː/ · stress on LINL · 2 syllables

“Dweller by the flax meadow”

England origin · Unisex name

What does Linley mean and where does it come from?

Linley is an English name that may derive from a surname, meaning 'flax field'. Its use as a first name started to gain popularity in the late 20th century. The name is seen in both England and the U.S. Variations can include Linleigh or Lynlee, and it appeals to parents looking for nature-inspired

Cultural significance

Linley has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in England-speaking communities, where it reflects values of dweller by the flax meadow.

Peak popularity

Reached #2190 in 2013 — currently #1089 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Linley?

Linley works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Linley Grace

How popular is Linley right now?

Holding steady — currently #1089 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1980–2023#1089 · Top 0.80%

1980

1990

1995

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#1089	1,111	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2022	#1094	1,091	▲ up 5 · +3% births
2021	#1099	1,061	▲ up 1542 · +1584% births
2020	#2641	63	▼ down 384 · -24% births
2015	#2257	83	▲ up 829 · +54% births
2010	#3086	54	▲ up 1896 · +108% births
2005	#4982	26	▲ up 6959 · +333% births
1995	#11941	6	▼ down 7211 · -70% births
1990	#4730	20	▲ up 1676 · +100% births
1980	#6406	10	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Linley

Best Year2023Rank #1089

Peak Count1,111

Average Rank#3933

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1980 - 202310 years

The story of Linley

Linley entered American naming records in 1952 and has been in use for over 72 years. With 1,385 total births recorded, Linley remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #6406 in 1980 to #1089 in 2023. Linley is used for both genders: 94% female and 6% male.

Names that peaked alongside Linley in 2013:

Sophia Emma Olivia Isabella Ava

Linley by decade

Linley peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →

Decade	Births
1910s	14
1920s	20
1930s	15
1940s	24
1950s	5
1960s	30
1970s	30
1980s	139
1990s	105
2000s	241
2010s ★	699
2020s	63

💎With 1,385 total births, Linley is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Linley?

Common

LinLiInley

What names sound and feel like Linley?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Linley also consider these

Linsley

England · A place name

Lindley

American · Lime tree meadow

English · of the lily

Finley

Scottish · Scottish

Kinley

Scottish · From the king's

Tinley

American · From the tin

Common questions about the name Linley

What does the name Linley mean?

Linley means "Dweller by the flax meadow" — a name rooted in England 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 Linley?

Linley 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 Linley?

Linley originates from England tradition. England 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 Linley?

Linley is a two-syllable name pronounced L IH1 N L IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Linley a common or rare name?

Linley is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.