Rising since 2018, #6,803 for boys today.
Popularity of Motley since 2010
Babies named Motley per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 5 | 11 |
| 2020s | 90 | 134 |
Meaning & origin
Motley is an uncommon unisex name that has seen a modest rise in use since 2018, reaching its highest rank of 6,803 in 2025. It was first recorded in 2010, and its peak year so far was 2022, though it remains a rare choice with a 1-in-142,340 birth rate. The name is likely derived from an English surname referencing the multicolored cloth worn by jesters, making it a whimsical yet understated option. Despite its rarity, Motley has not been associated with any specific top states, reflecting its scattered use across the country.
Motley is a rare modern given name, derived from an English surname. The surname Motley has two possible origins: it may be a nickname from Middle English 'motley', referring to a multicolored woolen cloth often worn by jesters, or it may be a variant of the Norman name Mowbray. As a first name, it has been used sparingly since the 21st century, likely as a creative or surname-inspired choice.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Mot, Mott
Sibling names for Motley
Names that share Motley's style, for a brother or sister.
