Find out how popular the first name Jaley has been for the last 28 years (from 1996 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Jaley by gender

Based on the last 28 years of data, Jaley is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 6 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Jaley.

The history of the first name Jaley

The name Jaley finds its origins in the Gaelic language, spoken by the Celtic people of ancient Ireland and Scotland. Derived from the Old Irish word "geal," meaning "bright" or "radiant," the name was initially used to describe someone with fair hair or a bright complexion.

In the early medieval period, the name began to appear in various Irish and Scottish texts, often associated with individuals of noble or influential backgrounds. One of the earliest recorded instances is found in the Annals of Ulster, a chronicle of medieval Irish history, where a figure named Jaley mac Dúnghaile is mentioned as a prominent leader in the 8th century.

As the name spread throughout the British Isles, it evolved into various spellings, such as Jailey, Jaeley, and Jaileigh. Notable historical figures bearing the name include Jaley O'Donnell, a 16th-century Irish chieftain renowned for his military prowess and resistance against English colonization. In Scotland, Jaley MacLeod was a celebrated poet and bard in the 17th century, known for her lyrical compositions that celebrated the Highland culture.

Beyond the British Isles, the name Jaley found its way into other European languages, particularly in regions with Celtic influences. In Brittany, France, Jaley Le Goff was a prominent merchant and trader in the 15th century, whose successful business ventures contributed to the region's economic prosperity. In Spain, Jaley Álvarez was a renowned architect and stonemason during the 16th century, responsible for the design and construction of several notable churches and cathedrals in the Galician region.

While the name Jaley has endured through the centuries, its usage has been relatively rare compared to other Celtic-derived names. Nevertheless, it continues to hold a special place in the cultural heritage of Ireland, Scotland, and other regions with Celtic influences, serving as a reminder of the rich linguistic and historical traditions that have shaped these nations.

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 Jaley was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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