Paisley
Church, cemetery; teardrop pattern — a girl name of Scottish origin
Popularity of Paisley in the United States
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Meaning & Origin of Paisley
Paisley takes its name from the town of Paisley in Renfrewshire, Scotland, whose own name may derive from the Old Irish "phasaig," related to a church or burial ground, or from the Latin "basilica." The town became world-famous in the 18th and 19th centuries as the center of textile production for the swirling, teardrop-shaped Kashmiri pattern that came to be known as "paisley" throughout the English-speaking world. As a given name, Paisley began as a surname before crossing over into a fashionable first name for girls in the early 21st century, prized for its soft sound and textile-inspired charm. It has climbed rapidly up the popularity charts in the United States since 2010.
Variations & Nicknames
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Famous People Named Paisley
- Paisley Currah — American political scientist and scholar of transgender studies
- Paisley Verea — daughter of actress Gabrielle Anwar
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Paisley mean?
Paisley is a girl name of Scottish origin meaning "Church, cemetery; teardrop pattern." Paisley takes its name from the town of Paisley in Renfrewshire, Scotland, whose own name may derive from the Old Irish "phasaig," related to a church or burial ground, or from the Latin "basilica." The town became world-famous in the 18th and 19th centuries as the center of textile production for the swirling, teardrop-shaped Kashmiri pattern that came to be known as "paisley" throughout the English-speaking world.
How do you pronounce Paisley?
Paisley is pronounced PAYZ-lee. Common variations include Paislee, Paisleigh, Paislie.
Is Paisley a girl name?
Yes, Paisley is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Paisy, Pais, Lee.
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