Origin & Meaning of the Westley Surname
What does the last name Westley mean?
The surname Westley 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 2,137 bearers in the 2010 US Census, Westley ranks as the #14,076 most common surname in the United States.
Where does the surname Westley come from?
The Westley 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 Westley name far beyond its original homeland.
Language of Origin
The linguistic roots of Westley 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 | Westley |
|---|---|
| Meaning | From a meadow or clearing |
| Origin | English |
| Language | Old English |
| US Rank (2010) | #14,076 |
| US Count (2010) | 2,137 |
| Per 100K People | 0.72 |
| First Letter | W |
Ethnic Distribution of Westley
According to the US Census, the Westley surname is distributed across the following ethnic groups. This data reflects self-reported ethnicity among 2,137 Americans with the Westley last name.
| Ethnicity | Percentage |
|---|---|
| White | 53.25% |
| Black | 40.85% |
| Hispanic | 1.78% |
| Asian/Pacific Islander | 0.8% |
| Native American | 0.66% |
| Two or More Races | 2.67% |
Popularity of Westley Over Time
Comparing US Census data from 2000 and 2010 shows how the Westley surname has changed in prevalence.
The number of Americans with the Westley surname increased by 165 between 2000 and 2010.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Westley
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