Origin & Meaning of the Shanley Surname
What does the last name Shanley mean?
The surname Shanley 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 4,511 bearers in the 2010 US Census, Shanley ranks as the #7,384 most common surname in the United States.
Where does the surname Shanley come from?
The Shanley 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 Shanley name far beyond its original homeland.
Language of Origin
The linguistic roots of Shanley 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 | Shanley |
|---|---|
| Meaning | From a meadow or clearing |
| Origin | English |
| Language | Old English |
| US Rank (2010) | #7,384 |
| US Count (2010) | 4,511 |
| Per 100K People | 1.53 |
| First Letter | S |
Ethnic Distribution of Shanley
According to the US Census, the Shanley surname is distributed across the following ethnic groups. This data reflects self-reported ethnicity among 4,511 Americans with the Shanley last name.
| Ethnicity | Percentage |
|---|---|
| White | 94.88% |
| Black | 0.62% |
| Hispanic | 2.08% |
| Asian/Pacific Islander | 0.51% |
| Native American | 0.49% |
| Two or More Races | 1.42% |
Popularity of Shanley Over Time
Comparing US Census data from 2000 and 2010 shows how the Shanley surname has changed in prevalence.
The number of Americans with the Shanley surname increased by 349 between 2000 and 2010.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Shanley
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