SHIRLEY
Shirley
Origin
Shirley is an English surname with origins dating back to medieval times. It is of locational origin, derived from several places in England named Shirley, which means "clearing on a bank" or "bright clearing" in Old English. The surname was then adopted by families living in or originating from these places.
Distribution and Population
The surname Shirley is most commonly found in the counties of Warwickshire, Derbyshire, and Surrey in England. Over time, individuals bearing the surname have spread to various parts of the United Kingdom and beyond, including the United States, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.
Historical Significance
The surname Shirley has historical significance, as individuals bearing this surname have been associated with various notable figures and events throughout British history. The most distinguished bearer of the name is the Shirley family of Ettington in Warwickshire, who held significant estates and played important roles in English politics and society from the medieval period onwards.
Variants
Variants of the surname Shirley include Sherley, Shurley, and Shirely, among others. These variations arose due to influences such as regional dialects, phonetic spelling, and clerical errors in historical records.
Famous Individuals
- Sir Anthony Shirley (c. 1565–c. 1635): A prominent English adventurer and naval commander known for his exploits in the service of the English crown.
- James Shirley (1596–1666): A notable English dramatist of the Jacobean and Caroline eras, best known for his plays and contributions to English literature.
- Shirley Ballas (b. 1960): A British ballroom dancer and instructor who gained fame as a judge on the television show Strictly Come Dancing.
Modern Times
In modern times, the surname Shirley continues to be borne by individuals across the globe, maintaining its link to English heritage and history. The name is often passed down through generations in families, preserving a connection to their ancestral roots.
Overall, the surname Shirley holds a place of significance in British onomastics, reflecting the rich history and cultural heritage of England.
There are approximately 6,073 people named Shirley in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,561st most common surname in Britain. Around 93 in a million people in Britain are named Shirley.
Surname type: Location or geographical feature
Origin: English
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: England
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: English
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Robert
- Stephen
Female
- Ann
- Carol
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Helen
- Jacqueline
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Rebecca
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.