Find out how popular the first name Yardley has been for the last 45 years (from 1977 to 2021) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Yardley by gender

Based on the last 45 years of data, Yardley is more commonly used as a female name, with approximately 54% of people named Yardley being female.

For the most recent data in 2021, there were 7 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Yardley.

The history of the first name Yardley

The name Yardley is of English origin and is believed to have originated as a toponymic surname derived from the place name Yardley, which refers to several locations in England. The name is thought to be derived from the Old English words "gerd" or "geard," meaning an enclosed yard or garden, and "leah," meaning a clearing or meadow.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Yardley can be traced back to the Domesday Book of 1086, which documented the landholdings and properties in England at the time of the Norman Conquest. The name appears in various spellings, such as "Ierdlei" and "Iardelei," indicating its long-standing presence in the region.

While the name Yardley does not have a direct historical reference in ancient texts or religious scriptures, it has been borne by several notable individuals throughout history. One of the earliest examples is William de Yardley, a 13th-century English landowner and knight who was mentioned in records from the reign of King Edward I (1272-1307).

Another prominent figure with the name Yardley was Sir William Yardley (1542-1623), an English merchant and politician who served as Lord Mayor of London in 1620. He was known for his involvement in the East India Company and his efforts in promoting trade with the East Indies.

In the 18th century, Yardley Plumer (1716-1761) was a British naval officer who served in the Royal Navy during the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War. He gained recognition for his bravery in various naval battles and was eventually promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral.

Moving into the 19th century, Yardley Taylor (1805-1897) was an American lawyer and politician who served as a member of the United States House of Representatives from Virginia. He was also a prominent figure in the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War.

In more recent times, Yardley Moore (1889-1978) was an American baseball player who played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball for several teams, including the Boston Red Sox and the St. Louis Browns, during the early 20th century.

These are just a few examples of notable individuals who have borne the first name Yardley throughout history, showcasing its enduring presence and significance across various fields and time periods.

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

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

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