Shirley Ray

Name meaning, origin and global statistics

Shirley Ray — English
747K People worldwide
United States Most common in
1970s Peak popularity
Gender
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Shirley Ray is a name that combines English origins. The first name Shirley is a feminine given name of English origin. Shirley is a given name and a surname originating from the English place-name Shirley, which is derived from the Old English elements scire ("shire") or scīr ("bright, clear") and lēah ("wood, clearing, meadow, enclosure"). The name makes reference to the open space where the moot (an early English assembly of freemen which met to administer justice and discuss community issues) was held. The surname Ray: The surname Ray has several origins. Origin of the surname In some cases it originates from a nickname, derived from the Old French rei, roy, meaning "king", which was sometimes also used as a personal name. This nickname may have denoted a person's pride or swagger, someone's appearance, or regal behavior or bearing, or may have referred to achievement in a contest, royal service, or may have denoted someone who presided over certain festive celebrations. Shirley is a well-known first name, carried by approximately 747K people globally, with the highest concentration in United States. The name Shirley reached peak popularity in the 1970s, reflecting the naming trends of that era.

Etymology & Origin

First Name: Shirley

English

Shirley is a given name and a surname originating from the English place-name Shirley, which is derived from the Old English elements scire ("shire") or scīr ("bright, clear") and lēah ("wood, clearing, meadow, enclosure"). The name makes reference to the open space where the moot (an early English assembly of freemen which met to administer justice and discuss community issues) was held.

Surname: Ray

French

The surname Ray has several origins. Origin of the surname In some cases it originates from a nickname, derived from the Old French rei, roy, meaning "king", which was sometimes also used as a personal name. This nickname may have denoted a person's pride or swagger, someone's appearance, or regal behavior or bearing, or may have referred to achievement in a contest, royal service, or may have denoted someone who presided over certain festive celebrations.

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Geographic Distribution

The first name Shirley is distributed across the globe, with the highest concentrations in the following countries:

United States 51%
United Kingdom 27%
Australia 12%
Canada 9%

Popularity Over Time

Popularity of the name Shirley by decade, based on birth registration data:

1900s
1910s
1920s
1930s
1940s
1950s
1960s
1970s
1980s
1990s
2000s
2010s
2020s
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Notable People Named Shirley Ray

People listed above share this name. Listed for informational purposes only. Source: Wikipedia.

Numerology

According to Pythagorean numerology, each letter in a name carries a numerical value. Here are the key numbers for Shirley Ray:

5
Expression Number

Freedom and adaptability. A dynamic, versatile personality that embraces change and seeks new experiences.

6
Soul Urge Number

Nurturing and responsibility. Associated with care, family values and a strong sense of duty towards loved ones.

8
Personality Number

Ambition and material success. Represents power, business acumen and the drive to achieve significant goals.

Numerology is a cultural tradition for exploring symbolism in names. Results are for entertainment purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of the first name Shirley?
The first name Shirley originates from English. Shirley is a given name and a surname originating from the English place-name Shirley, which is derived from the Old English elements scire ("shire") or scīr ("bright, clear") and lēah ("wood, clearing, meadow, enclosure"). The name makes reference to the open space where the moot (an early English assembly of freemen which met to administer justice and discuss community issues) was held.
When was Shirley most popular?
The name Shirley reached its peak popularity during the 1970s.
What is the origin of the surname Ray?
The surname Ray originates from French. The surname Ray has several origins. Origin of the surname In some cases it originates from a nickname, derived from the Old French rei, roy, meaning "king", which was sometimes also used as a personal name. This nickname may have denoted a person's pride or swagger, someone's appearance, or regal behavior or bearing, or may have referred to achievement in a contest, royal service, or may have denoted someone who presided over certain festive celebrations.
What are the origins of the name Shirley Ray?
The name Shirley Ray combines two different traditions: the first name Shirley has English roots, while the surname Ray originates from French.
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