Baily
Baily Origin and Meaning
Baily is a gender-neutral name primarily used for boys, derived from the Old English term 'baili,' meaning 'bailiff' or 'steward.' Originally a surname denoting someone who held this administrative position, it transitioned to first-name usage following the trend of surnames becoming given names. Most commonly seen as an alternative spelling of Bailey, which has gained significant popularity for both genders in recent decades, Baily offers a slightly more streamlined appearance. The name carries associations with reliability and responsibility from its occupational roots, while its friendly '-y' ending gives it a warm, approachable quality. In the United States, Bailey/Baily saw a notable rise beginning in the 1990s, particularly after the character Bailey Salinger appeared in the television series 'Party of Five.'