SHORLEY
Shorley
Shorley is an ancient surname of medieval English origin. The name is believed to derive from the Old English personal name "Scirleah," which means 'bright clearing'. This suggests that the surname may have originated as a locational name for someone who lived near a bright, open space.
The first recorded instance of the surname Shorley dates back to the 13th century in the county of Lancashire in North West England. Over the centuries, bearers of the surname Shorley have been documented in various parts of the United Kingdom, with notable concentrations in the counties of Lancashire, Cheshire, and Staffordshire.
The spelling of the surname has undergone various changes over time, with common variations including Shorly, Shirley, and Shorely. The name has also been subject to phonetic spelling adaptations in different regions, which has led to further diversification.
The Shorley family name has been associated with a variety of professions and social classes throughout history. Individuals bearing this surname have been found in diverse occupations, ranging from farmers and craftsmen to merchants and scholars.
In modern times, the surname Shorley continues to be present in the United Kingdom as well as in other parts of the world where British diaspora communities exist. The name may also have evolved through marriages and other family connections, resulting in a wider dissemination of the surname.
Overall, the surname Shorley is a testament to the rich tapestry of British surnames and their long-standing significance in the cultural heritage of the United Kingdom.
There are approximately 82 people named Shorley in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Shorley.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Ian
Female