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Shirley as a Baby Name. Meaning and Origin of Shirley

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The baby name Shirley is a Unisex name 2 syllables long and is pronounced shur-lee.

Shirley is English in Origin.

Gender: Unisex
Syllables: 2
Origin: English
Pronunciation: shur-lee

What is the meaning of the name Shirley ?

The baby name Shirley is a unisex name 2 syllables long and is pronounced shur-lee.

Shirley is English in Origin.

Shirley is a name that originated in England and means "bright meadow". It was first used as a surname and then became a popular given name in the 19th century. The name gained popularity in the United States in the 1930s and 1940s, likely due to the popularity of the actress Shirley Temple.

Shirley is a unisex name, but it is more commonly used for girls. The pronunciation of Shirley is SHUR-lee. The name is composed of two elements: "shire" meaning bright or clear, and "ley" meaning meadow or clearing.

The name Shirley has been used in various forms of media, including literature and film. One of the most famous literary characters with the name Shirley is the protagonist of the novel "Shirley" by Charlotte Bronte. The name has also been used in popular culture, such as the song "Sweet Little Sixteen" by Chuck Berry, which features the lyrics "They're really rockin' in Boston / In Pittsburgh, PA / Deep in the heart of Texas / And round the 'Frisco Bay / All over St. Louis / And down in New Orleans / All the cats wanna dance with / Sweet little sixteen / Sweet little sixteen / She's just got to have / About half a million / Framed autographs".

Shirley has the following similar or variant Names

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FAQs about the name

Is Shirley a common name?

Shirley used to be a very popular name, especially in the mid-20th century. However, it has become less common in recent years. Despite its declining popularity, Shirley remains a recognizable and familiar name to many.

Is Shirley considered a feminine name?

Yes, Shirley is predominantly considered a feminine name. It is historically more commonly given to girls than boys. However, like many names, there can be variations and exceptions.

Are there any famous individuals named Shirley?

Yes, there have been several famous individuals named Shirley. Notable examples include Shirley Temple, a child actress and diplomat, and Shirley MacLaine, an Academy Award-winning actress and author. These individuals have contributed to making the name Shirley well-known.

Can Shirley be used as a last name?

While it is more commonly used as a first name, Shirley can also be used as a last name. In some cases, it may have originated as a surname and later became a given name. However, its usage as a last name is generally less common.

Are there any fictional characters named Shirley?

Yes, there are fictional characters named Shirley in various forms of media. One well-known example is Shirley Bennett from the TV show "Community." These characters contribute to the cultural familiarity and associations with the name Shirley.

Does Shirley have any specific cultural or regional associations?

Shirley does not have specific cultural or regional associations tied to it. It is a name that has been used across different cultures and regions, making it diverse in its usage and associations.

Does Shirley have any alternative spellings or variations?

While the spelling "Shirley" is the most common, there are some variations and alternative spellings of the name. These can include variations like Shirlee or Shirlie, but they are less commonly used compared to the traditional spelling.

Is Shirley a name commonly used in literature or poetry?

The name Shirley has appeared in some works of literature and poetry. One notable example is the novel "Shirley" by Charlotte Brontë. However, it is not as widely used in literary works compared to other names.

Is Shirley more popular in certain time periods?

Yes, Shirley experienced its peak popularity in the mid-20th century. It was particularly popular in the United States during the 1930s to 1950s. Since then, its usage has declined, and it is currently less common.

What are some common nicknames for Shirley?

Some common nicknames for Shirley include Shirl, Sherry, and Lee. These nicknames offer a more casual and familiar alternative to the full name. However, the choice of nickname may vary depending on personal preference and cultural context.