Is Shirley a Common Name in English?

Introduction

The name Shirley has been a popular choice for newborns in many countries, including the United States, Canada, and England. However, there has been some debate about its origin and popularity. Some people argue that Shirley is a traditional English name, while others believe that it is not common in the English-speaking world.

The History of the Name Shirley

The name Shirley is derived from the Old English words \"scir\" and \"leah,\" which mean \"bright meadow.\" The name was originally used as a surname and was first recorded in the Domesday Book in 1086. It wasn't until the 19th century that Shirley began to be used as a first name for girls. During the Victorian era, Shirley became a popular name for girls, inspired by the novel Shirley by Charlotte Bronte. The book was published in 1849 and follows the story of a young woman named Shirley Keeldar. The success of the book led to a surge in popularity of the name Shirley.

Popularity and Usage of the Name Shirley

In the early 20th century, the name Shirley reached its peak of popularity in the United States. According to the Social Security Administration, the name was the second most popular name for girls in 1935 and remained in the top ten until 1954. In England, the name Shirley was also popular during the early 20th century but has since declined in usage. According to the Office of National Statistics, Shirley was the 13th most popular name for girls in 1934 but had dropped to 1,172nd by 2019. Despite its decline in popularity, the name Shirley remains a well-known and recognizable name in the English-speaking world. It has been used in popular culture, including in the songs \"Shirley Bassey\" by Arctic Monkeys and \"Shirley\" by Lianne La Havas.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the name Shirley has a long history as a surname and a more recent history as a first name for girls. Its popularity has fluctuated throughout the years but remains a recognizable name in the English-speaking world. So, while it may not be as common as it once was, the name Shirley is far from being considered \"uncommon\" in English.