Haley

Haley is a name used as both a surname and a given name in English-speaking countries. It appears in multiple spellings, including Hailey, Hailee, Hallie, Hayley, and Haylee, and is commonly feminine in modern usage, though historically it has been unisex.

The name originates from English toponyms and medieval surnames. As a surname, Haley likely derives from place names in England, formed from Old English elements relating to location features such as a meadow or clearing. Over time, the surname spread to Ireland and other regions and was brought to the Americas by immigrants. In the United States and other countries, Haley has become a widely used given name, often chosen for its soft sound and familiarity.

As a given name, Haley has risen in popularity in the 20th and 21st centuries and is now common for girls in the United States and other English-speaking areas. Notable contemporary bearers include Haley Reinhart, an American singer and actress, and Haley Joel Osment, an American actor who bears Haley as a first name. In fiction, the name Haley appears as a character name, such as Haley Dunphy from the television series Modern Family.

As a surname, Haley is well established, with notable individuals including Alex Haley, the author best known for Roots: The Saga of an American Family. The name continues to be used widely and remains closely associated with English-language culture.