Find out how popular the first name Alley has been for the last 36 years (from 1988 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Alley by gender

Based on the last 36 years of data, Alley is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 9 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Alley.

The history of the first name Alley

The name Alley originated in the medieval English language, derived from the Old French word "alee," which means "path" or "walkway." This name gained prominence during the Middle Ages, particularly in regions where French culture and language had a strong influence, such as England and parts of continental Europe.

In its earliest recorded use, the name Alley referred to individuals who lived or worked near a specific alleyway or passageway within a town or city. It was often used as a descriptive name to identify a person's location or occupation.

One of the earliest known references to the name Alley can be found in the Domesday Book, a comprehensive survey of landholdings and population in England commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1086. The book mentions several individuals with the name Alley or variations thereof, indicating its use during the Norman period in English history.

Throughout the medieval and early modern periods, the name Alley appeared in various historical records and literary works. One notable figure was Alley Renault, a French poet and courtier born in 1426, who was known for her poetic works and her involvement in the cultural life of the French court during the reign of King Charles VII.

In the 16th century, the name Alley gained further recognition with the birth of Alley Baggett in 1567, an English merchant and explorer who traveled extensively throughout the Mediterranean region and the Middle East. His journals and accounts provided valuable insights into the trade routes and cultural exchanges of the time.

Another prominent figure bearing the name Alley was Alley Benton, born in 1703, a British botanist and naturalist who made significant contributions to the study of plant life in the American colonies. Her detailed illustrations and descriptions of native flora were instrumental in advancing botanical knowledge during the 18th century.

In the realm of literature, the name Alley is associated with Alley Crosthwaite, an English poet and playwright born in 1789. Her poetic works, which often explored themes of nature and romantic love, were widely acclaimed during the Romantic era and influenced subsequent generations of writers.

Over the centuries, the name Alley has been carried by individuals from various walks of life, including artists, scholars, explorers, and more. While its usage has evolved and diversified, the name continues to evoke a sense of historical significance and cultural richness.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Alley was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Alley, please contact us.

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