Origin & Meaning of the Smalley Surname
What does the last name Smalley mean?
The surname Smalley 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 11,737 bearers in the 2010 US Census, Smalley ranks as the #3,055 most common surname in the United States.
Where does the surname Smalley come from?
The Smalley 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 Smalley name far beyond its original homeland.
Language of Origin
The linguistic roots of Smalley 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 | Smalley |
|---|---|
| Meaning | From a meadow or clearing |
| Origin | English |
| Language | Old English |
| US Rank (2010) | #3,055 |
| US Count (2010) | 11,737 |
| Per 100K People | 3.98 |
| First Letter | S |
Ethnic Distribution of Smalley
According to the US Census, the Smalley surname is distributed across the following ethnic groups. This data reflects self-reported ethnicity among 11,737 Americans with the Smalley last name.
| Ethnicity | Percentage |
|---|---|
| White | 84.84% |
| Black | 9.42% |
| Hispanic | 2.38% |
| Asian/Pacific Islander | 0.55% |
| Native American | 0.8% |
| Two or More Races | 2.01% |
Popularity of Smalley Over Time
Comparing US Census data from 2000 and 2010 shows how the Smalley surname has changed in prevalence.
The number of Americans with the Smalley surname increased by 225 between 2000 and 2010.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Smalley
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