The name Carley is an English given name of uncertain origin, with various theories about its etymology. One theory suggests that it derives from the Old English word "cærlic," meaning "free man" or "husbandman." Another theory proposes that it is a variant of the name Charles, which itself comes from the Germanic name Karl, meaning "man" or "warrior."

In the Middle Ages, the name Carley was occasionally recorded as a surname, though its use as a given name did not become prevalent until the 19th century. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Carley as a first name dates back to the late 1700s in England.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Carley. One of the earliest was Carley Groves (1840-1912), an English singer and actress known for her performances in Victorian music halls. Another notable figure was Carley Denny (1870-1936), an American politician who served as a member of the United States House of Representatives from Missouri.

In the 20th century, Carley Siemens (1910-1988) was a Canadian businessman and philanthropist who founded the Siemens Group, one of Canada's largest private corporations. Carley Naishi (1932-2018) was a Japanese-American artist and sculptor known for her abstract works and contributions to the California art scene.

More recently, Carley Stenson (born 1982) is a British actress and singer who rose to fame for her role in the long-running soap opera Hollyoaks. She has also pursued a successful career in musical theater, appearing in productions such as Les Misérables and Legally Blonde.

While the name Carley has been more commonly used in English-speaking countries, its origins and meanings remain diverse, reflecting the rich tapestry of cultural influences that have shaped the English language over time.