Origin & Meaning of the Gurley Surname
What does the last name Gurley mean?
The surname Gurley carries the meaning "From a meadow or clearing." It is derived from the Old English language and has been passed down through generations, reflecting the occupations, locations, or characteristics of early bearers of the name. With 8,669 bearers in the 2010 US Census, Gurley ranks as the #4,098 most common surname in the United States.
Where does the surname Gurley come from?
The Gurley surname has its roots in English heritage. Names of English origin often reflect the cultural, linguistic, and historical traditions of the communities where they first appeared. Over centuries, migration and cultural exchange have spread the Gurley name far beyond its original homeland.
Language of Origin
The linguistic roots of Gurley trace back to Old English. Understanding the original language helps decode the meaning and evolution of the name from its earliest recorded forms to the modern spelling used today.
Quick Facts
| Surname | Gurley |
|---|---|
| Meaning | From a meadow or clearing |
| Origin | English |
| Language | Old English |
| US Rank (2010) | #4,098 |
| US Count (2010) | 8,669 |
| Per 100K People | 2.94 |
| First Letter | G |
Ethnic Distribution of Gurley
According to the US Census, the Gurley surname is distributed across the following ethnic groups. This data reflects self-reported ethnicity among 8,669 Americans with the Gurley last name.
| Ethnicity | Percentage |
|---|---|
| White | 72.68% |
| Black | 22.44% |
| Hispanic | 2.3% |
| Asian/Pacific Islander | 0.23% |
| Native American | 0.45% |
| Two or More Races | 1.9% |
Popularity of Gurley Over Time
Comparing US Census data from 2000 and 2010 shows how the Gurley surname has changed in prevalence.
The number of Americans with the Gurley surname increased by 627 between 2000 and 2010.
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Other English Surnames
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Frequently Asked Questions About Gurley
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