Hayley

Hayley is a feminine given name in English-speaking countries and, less commonly, a surname. The given name is derived from the English place-name Haley or Hayley, which itself comes from Old English elements such as haeg meaning “enclosure” and leah meaning “clearing” or meadow. Variants of the name include Haley, Hailey, Halley, and Haylie, with spelling often influenced by personal preference or family tradition.

In usage, Hayley became widely adopted in the late 20th century, particularly in the United States and parts of Europe. The name is typically associated with female bearers, though it can be found in other genders in rare cases. Its popularity has fluctuated over time, often rising with media and celebrity influence in various regions.

Notable people named Hayley include Hayley Williams, the American singer and frontperson of the band Paramore; Hayley Atwell, the British-American actress known for film and television work; Hayley Westenra, a New Zealand soprano; Hayley Mills, the English actress and daughter of actor Sir John Mills; Hayley Kiyoko, an American singer and actress; and Hayley Orrantia, an American actress and singer. These individuals illustrate the name’s contemporary association with artistic and public-facing professions.

As a surname, Hayley exists as well, typically linked to place-based origins. In general, the name Hayley reflects a tradition of English toponymic naming that has become established in multiple English-speaking communities.