Origin & Meaning of the Harley Surname
What does the last name Harley mean?
The surname Harley 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 12,186 bearers in the 2010 US Census, Harley ranks as the #2,943 most common surname in the United States.
Where does the surname Harley come from?
The Harley 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 Harley name far beyond its original homeland.
Language of Origin
The linguistic roots of Harley 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 | Harley |
|---|---|
| Meaning | From a meadow or clearing |
| Origin | English |
| Language | Old English |
| US Rank (2010) | #2,943 |
| US Count (2010) | 12,186 |
| Per 100K People | 4.13 |
| First Letter | H |
Ethnic Distribution of Harley
According to the US Census, the Harley surname is distributed across the following ethnic groups. This data reflects self-reported ethnicity among 12,186 Americans with the Harley last name.
| Ethnicity | Percentage |
|---|---|
| White | 52.61% |
| Black | 38.84% |
| Hispanic | 2.49% |
| Asian/Pacific Islander | 0.45% |
| Native American | 2.41% |
| Two or More Races | 3.19% |
Popularity of Harley Over Time
Comparing US Census data from 2000 and 2010 shows how the Harley surname has changed in prevalence.
The number of Americans with the Harley surname increased by 777 between 2000 and 2010.
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Other English Surnames
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Frequently Asked Questions About Harley
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