Find out how popular the first name Yarley has been for the last 1 years (from 2005 to 2005) and learn more about the meaning and history.
A unique invented name, possibly an elaboration on the unisex name Yari.
Based on the last 1 years of data, Yarley is exclusively a male name.
For the most recent data in 2005, there were 6 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Yarley.
| Year | Male Count | Female Count |
|---|---|---|
| 2005 | 6 | 0 |
The name Yarley is believed to have its origins in the ancient Germanic languages, likely derived from the Old Norse word "yarla," which referred to an earl or nobleman. The earliest recorded use of the name dates back to the 9th century in Scandinavia, where it was used as a title for men of high rank and authority.
During the Viking Age, between the 8th and 11th centuries, the name Yarley gained popularity among Norse settlers in regions such as Iceland, Greenland, and parts of modern-day Scotland and England. It was often associated with individuals of noble descent or those who held significant power and influence within their communities.
One notable historical figure bearing the name Yarley was Yarley Haakonsson, a Norwegian earl who lived in the late 10th century. He was a prominent figure during the reign of King Olaf Tryggvason and played a crucial role in the Christianization of Norway. Another historical figure was Yarley Rognvaldsson, an Icelandic chieftain who lived in the 11th century and was known for his role in establishing settlements in Greenland.
In the Middle Ages, the name Yarley appeared in various forms and spellings, such as "Yerley," "Yerli," and "Earley," reflecting the linguistic changes and regional variations that occurred over time. It was particularly common in areas with strong Norse influences, such as parts of England and Scotland.
One notable bearer of the name during this period was Yarley de Beaumont, an English nobleman who lived in the 12th century and served as a knight under King Richard I during the Third Crusade. Another historical figure was Yarley of Orkney, a 13th-century Scottish earl who ruled over the Orkney Islands.
As the name spread across Europe, it underwent further transformations and adaptations. In the 16th century, Yarley Eriksson was a Swedish military commander who played a significant role in the Northern Seven Years' War against Denmark and Poland. In the 17th century, Yarley Oxenstierna was a prominent Swedish statesman and diplomat who served as the Lord High Chancellor of Sweden.
While the name Yarley has become less common in modern times, it still holds historical significance and a connection to its noble and influential roots in ancient Germanic and Norse cultures.
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 Yarley was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.
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"Yarley first name popularity, history and meaning". NameCensus.com. Accessed on November 1, 2025. http://namecensus.com/first-names/yarley-meaning-and-history/.
"Yarley first name popularity, history and meaning". NameCensus.com, http://namecensus.com/first-names/yarley-meaning-and-history/. Accessed 1 November, 2025
Yarley first name popularity, history and meaning. NameCensus.com. Retrieved from http://namecensus.com/first-names/yarley-meaning-and-history/.
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