US Popularity:2881
Origin:British
Meaning:Bright meadow
The name Shirley comes from the Old English words scire, meaning "shire," or scīr, "bright," as well as lēah, meaning "meadow" or "clearing." This gender-neutral title was initially for boys; however, Charlotte Brontë's novel Shirley has popularized it as a chic name for girls since its publication in 1849. One of the most notable figures to bear this name is Shirley Temple Black, a child star who later became the United States ambassador to Ghana. The name Shirley sounds as lively and beautiful as its meaning, "bright meadow," and is well-known worldwide. Shirley is a charming title for baby, whether they're drawn to the theatre or called to political action, or both!

Famous People Named Shirley

Wondering who else shares this name? Check out these well known people who made this baby name famous.
  • Shirley Temple
    Actress

Shirley Name Popularity Data

The Bump Ranking

Overall:Shirley is currently #1381 on The Bump
Boy:Shirley is currently #749 on The Bump Boy Names
Girl:Shirley is currently #997 on The Bump Girl Names

U.S. Births

Overall:Shirley is currently #2881 in U.S. births
Girl:Shirley is currently #1552 in U.S. births

Yearly Ranking Change:

Year:
2023
Gender:
Girl
#1552
in 2023
+ 36
from 2022
In comparison to the previous year's data

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