Rockley

Rockley is a British surname with rich historical roots. The name is of Anglo-Saxon origin and is derived from the Old English word 'roc', meaning 'a rook' or 'a bird'. The addition of 'ley' or 'leigh' at the end of the name signifies a woodland or clearing, indicating that the name may have originally referred to a place where rooks gathered or nested.

The Rockley surname is believed to have originated in various parts of England, with notable concentrations in regions such as Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and Nottinghamshire. Over the centuries, the name has spread to other parts of the United Kingdom and beyond.

Individuals bearing the surname Rockley have been recorded in historical documents, such as parish registers, census records, and wills, reflecting their presence and contributions to British society over the years. The name may have evolved in spelling over time, with variations such as Rockly and Rockleigh also being found.

Like many surnames, the name Rockley has likely been influenced by factors such as migration, marriages, and social changes, leading to its diverse distribution and associations. Today, individuals with the surname Rockley can be found across the UK and in other parts of the world, contributing to the global legacy of this historical name.

There are approximately 530 people named Rockley in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around eight in a million people in Britain are named Rockley.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alan
  • Andrew
  • Andy
  • Christopher
  • David
  • Dennis
  • James
  • John
  • Keith
  • Martin
  • Matthew
  • Paul
  • Robert
  • Tony

Female

  • Alison
  • Carol
  • Catherine
  • Elena
  • Elizabeth
  • Gillian
  • Kathleen
  • Margaret
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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