Shirley Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Shirley come from? What does the surname Shirley mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Shirley and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Sherley, Shurley
Surname Shirley Origin: What does the last name Shirley mean?
The surname Shirley is of English origin, deriving from the Old English elements meaning "shire" or "bright, clear" and "wood, clearing, meadow, enclosure." It is associated with the open space where early English assemblies were held. Shirley has been used as both a given name and a surname, with notable popularity in the 20th century, especially in the United States. The name has been linked to various notable individuals in different fields, further solidifying its place in history.
YourRoots data indicates that the Shirley surname has a strong historical presence in the United Kingdom, particularly England, dating back to the early 12th century. As the centuries passed, the surname spread to other regions, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Today, the Shirley surname can be found in various countries worldwide, showcasing its enduring legacy and widespread appeal across different cultures.
Shirley Last Name History: Where did the last name Shirley come from?
Origin of Shirley Surname: Where does the last name Shirley originate from?
Based on YourRoots data, the surname Shirley first appeared in records from the United Kingdom, specifically England, around the early 12th century. It is important to remember that this data only covers the exact spelling of "Shirley" and might not include other record sources or variations of the surname.
History of the Last Name Shirley: What does the Shirley surname history look like in the early days?
The "Shirley" surname has a strong association with England from the 12th through the 16th century according to YourRoots data. While the volume of Shirley family records in England during this period significantly outweighs other countries, there is also evidence of early records in other regions, suggesting a gradual spread of the surname over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Shirley surname today?
The Shirley surname saw a notable increase in frequency in the United States from the 17th century onwards. In the following centuries, the volume of records in the United States surpassed that of the United Kingdom, a trend that carried forward into the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, the "Shirley" surname is found in a wide range of countries, including, but not limited to, the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and various European countries.
Explore Shirley last name heritage and Shirley surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

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