Whitley
Whitley is a girl name of English origin meaning “White meadow”, pronounced WIT-lee. It ranked #677 in the United States in 2025, given to 420 babies, and peaked at #446 in 1988. Common nicknames: Whit, Lee.
How popular is Whitley 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 Whitley mean, and where does it come from?
Whitley is an English place name — Old English hwit, "white," and leah, "clearing" — found across the north of England and carried as a surname. As an American girls' name it has a precise origin: A Different World introduced Whitley Gilbert in 1987, and the name appeared in the top thousand the following year, peaking immediately. It faded and is rising again now, thirty-five years later, with the rest of the -ley names.
How is Whitley used around the world?
Whitley is used in 1 languages worldwide.
TypeUnisex name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Whitley?
Famous People Named Whitley
- Whitley Strieber — American author
- Whitley Stokes — Irish lawyer and Celtic scholar
Similar Names to Whitley
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Sibling Name Ideas for Whitley
Looking for names that pair well with Whitley? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Whitley mean?
Whitley is a girl name of English origin meaning "White meadow." Whitley is an English place name — Old English hwit, "white," and leah, "clearing" — found across the north of England and carried as a surname. As an American girls' name it has a precise origin: A Different World introduced Whitley Gilbert in 1987, and the name appeared in the top thousand the following year, peaking immediately.
How do you pronounce Whitley?
Whitley is pronounced WIT-lee. Common variations include Whitleigh, Whitlee, Whitney.
Is Whitley a girl name?
Yes, Whitley is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Whit, Lee.