Stanley Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Stanley come from? What does the surname Stanley mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Stanley and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Stanley Origin: What does the last name Stanley mean?
The surname Stanley is of English origin and is derived from the Old English words "stan" meaning "stone" and "leah" meaning "meadow." This toponymic surname signifies a person who lived near a stony meadow. The Stanley surname first appeared in records from the United Kingdom in the early 11th century, according to YourRoots data. Over the centuries, the name remained closely associated with the United Kingdom but also spread to the United States, where it became increasingly common.
YourRoots data confirms the presence of the Stanley surname in the United Kingdom since the early 11th century. The name expanded in frequency over the centuries and became prominent in the United States by the 17th century, surpassing its prevalence in the UK. Today, the Stanley surname can be found in various countries worldwide, indicating its enduring global presence and rich heritage.
Stanley Last Name History: Where did the last name Stanley come from?
Origin of Stanley Surname: Where does the last name Stanley originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Stanley first appeared in records from the United Kingdom around the early 11th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact “Stanley” spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Stanley: What does the Stanley surname history look like in the early days?
The “Stanley” surname remained closely associated with the United Kingdom from the 11th through the 15th century. YourRoots data also shows Stanley family records in the United States, indicating a shift in frequency over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Stanley surname today?
By the 17th century, the volume of records with the Stanley surname grew significantly in the United States. By the early 18th century, it had surpassed the United Kingdom, a trend that continued into the 19th and 20th centuries. The “Stanley” surname remains prominent in the United States and is also present in the United Kingdom.
Explore Stanley last name heritage and Stanley surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Stanley Surame?
Paul Stanley
Paul Stanley (Stanley Bert Eisen; January 20, 1952 - ) is an American musician known as the co-founder and frontman of the iconic hard rock band Kiss. He was the creative force behind many of the band's hit songs and established The Starchild character for his Kiss persona. Stanley was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014 and ranked as one of the Top Metal Vocalists of All Time. With a passion for music since a young age, Stanley overcame hearing challenges to become a rock legend and inspire generations of fans worldwide.
Kim Stanley
Kim Stanley (Patricia Kimberley Reid; Feb 11, 1925 – Aug 20, 2001) was an American actress known for her work in television, theatre, and film. She received critical acclaim for her roles in Broadway productions like "Picnic" and "Bus Stop." Stanley also had success in film, earning an Academy Award nomination for her performance in "The Goddess" and winning the New York Film Critics Circle Award for "Séance on a Wet Afternoon." Additionally, she received an Emmy Award for her role in a television adaptation of "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof." Stanley's contributions to the entertainment industry earned her a place in the American Theatre Hall of Fame.
Florence Stanley
Florence Lenore Stanley (July 1, 1924 – October 3, 2003) was an American actress known for her roles in TV series like Barney Miller, My Two Dads, and Nurses. She also voiced Wilhelmina Bertha Packard in Atlantis: The Lost Empire. Stanley's career spanned stage, film, and television, with appearances in Broadway productions like Fiddler On The Roof and acclaimed performances in films like The Day of the Dolphin. She continued acting in various TV shows and movies until her passing at age 79 in 2003, leaving behind a legacy of memorable characters and performances.
Rhys Stanley
Rhys Stanley (born Dec 1, 1990) is an Australian rules footballer known for his time with the Geelong Football Club in the AFL. He also played for the St Kilda Football Club. Stanley made his mark winning the 2009 AFL Grand Final Sprint and has been a key player in Geelong's recent successes, including winning the 2022 premiership. His athleticism and skill as a ruckman have solidified his position in the team, making him a fan favorite.
Jessamyn Stanley
Jessamyn Stanley is an American yoga teacher and body positivity advocate known for her inclusive, body-affirming approach to yoga. She gained popularity through her Instagram posts showcasing her practice as a "plus-size woman of color." Jessamyn challenges stereotypes and promotes self-acceptance through her teachings and writings. She is the author of the books Every Body Yoga and Yoke, and has a strong social media presence with over 350,000 Instagram followers. Through her work, she has changed the perception of what a yogi looks like and continues to inspire others to embrace yoga regardless of their body size or shape.
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