Origin & Meaning of the Wiley Surname
What does the last name Wiley mean?
The surname Wiley 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 48,720 bearers in the 2010 US Census, Wiley ranks as the #713 most common surname in the United States.
Where does the surname Wiley come from?
The Wiley 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 Wiley name far beyond its original homeland.
Language of Origin
The linguistic roots of Wiley 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 | Wiley |
|---|---|
| Meaning | From a meadow or clearing |
| Origin | English |
| Language | Old English |
| US Rank (2010) | #713 |
| US Count (2010) | 48,720 |
| Per 100K People | 16.52 |
| First Letter | W |
Ethnic Distribution of Wiley
According to the US Census, the Wiley surname is distributed across the following ethnic groups. This data reflects self-reported ethnicity among 48,720 Americans with the Wiley last name.
| Ethnicity | Percentage |
|---|---|
| White | 65.71% |
| Black | 28.68% |
| Hispanic | 2.23% |
| Asian/Pacific Islander | 0.46% |
| Native American | 0.64% |
| Two or More Races | 2.28% |
Popularity of Wiley Over Time
Comparing US Census data from 2000 and 2010 shows how the Wiley surname has changed in prevalence.
The number of Americans with the Wiley surname increased by 1,217 between 2000 and 2010.
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Other English Surnames
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Frequently Asked Questions About Wiley
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