Origin & Meaning of the Watley Surname
What does the last name Watley mean?
The surname Watley 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 2,361 bearers in the 2010 US Census, Watley ranks as the #13,002 most common surname in the United States.
Where does the surname Watley come from?
The Watley 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 Watley name far beyond its original homeland.
Language of Origin
The linguistic roots of Watley 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 | Watley |
|---|---|
| Meaning | From a meadow or clearing |
| Origin | English |
| Language | Old English |
| US Rank (2010) | #13,002 |
| US Count (2010) | 2,361 |
| Per 100K People | 0.8 |
| First Letter | W |
Ethnic Distribution of Watley
According to the US Census, the Watley surname is distributed across the following ethnic groups. This data reflects self-reported ethnicity among 2,361 Americans with the Watley last name.
| Ethnicity | Percentage |
|---|---|
| White | 38.84% |
| Black | 51.42% |
| Hispanic | 5.55% |
| Asian/Pacific Islander | 0.8% |
| Native American | 0.55% |
| Two or More Races | 2.84% |
Popularity of Watley Over Time
Comparing US Census data from 2000 and 2010 shows how the Watley surname has changed in prevalence.
The number of Americans with the Watley surname increased by 231 between 2000 and 2010.
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Other English Surnames
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Frequently Asked Questions About Watley
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