Arleigh

Meaning & origin

Arleigh is a rare but rising-then-falling name that first appeared on U.S. records in 1924. It reached its peak rank of No. 6,116 in 2017, and by 2025 it occurred at a rate of 1 in 84,593 births. The name's trajectory has been declining since that peak year, mirroring the trend for many -ley ending names. Though unisex in origin, Arleigh is now almost exclusively given to girls. Its toponymic etymology (likely 'eagle's meadow') gives it a natural, outdoorsy feel. No top states recorded its usage highly, suggesting wide but thin distribution. As a modern revival name, Arleigh remains an uncommon choice, offering a distinctive sound without being overly unfamiliar.

Arleigh is believed to derive from an Old English toponymic surname, combining 'earn' (eagle) and 'leah' (woodland clearing or meadow). It emerged as a given name in the early 20th century, likely influenced by the popularity of similar-sounding names like Harley and Marley. It has been used for both boys and girls but is now predominantly female. Its usage peaked in the 2010s with 2017 being its highest rank.