Berkley
Berkley is a girl name of English origin meaning “Birch meadow”, pronounced BERK-lee. It ranked #888 in the United States in 2025, given to 301 babies, and peaked at #798 in 2021. Common nicknames: Berk, Lee, Birdie.
How popular is Berkley in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Berkley mean, and where does it come from?
Berkley is one spelling of an English place name built from Old English beorc, "birch," and leah, "clearing" or "meadow" — the same words behind Berkeley in Gloucestershire and the California city named after the philosopher George Berkeley. The -ey spelling has become the usual American choice for girls, in the company of Everley, Kinsley and Hadley, and it reached the top thousand in 2018. It reads as a place and a surname at once, which is exactly the register parents are after: recognisable, unfussy, and with Birdie or Lee tucked inside it for everyday use.
Variations & Nicknames
Variations
Nicknames
Famous People Named Berkley
- Busby Berkeley — American film director and choreographer
- George Berkeley — Irish philosopher after whom the California city is named
Similar Names to Berkley
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Sibling Name Ideas for Berkley
Looking for names that pair well with Berkley? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Berkley mean?
Berkley is a girl name of English origin meaning "Birch meadow." Berkley is one spelling of an English place name built from Old English beorc, "birch," and leah, "clearing" or "meadow" — the same words behind Berkeley in Gloucestershire and the California city named after the philosopher George Berkeley. The -ey spelling has become the usual American choice for girls, in the company of Everley, Kinsley and Hadley, and it reached the top thousand in 2018.
How do you pronounce Berkley?
Berkley is pronounced BERK-lee. Common variations include Berkeley, Barclay, Berklee.
Is Berkley a girl name?
Yes, Berkley is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Berk, Lee, Birdie.