Perley
Perley Origin and Meaning
Perley is a feminine name with English origins, though it began as a surname derived from Old English elements meaning 'pear clearing' or 'pear meadow.' It transitioned to use as a given name in the 19th century, initially more common for boys but gradually shifting toward feminine usage. The name carries a charming natural connection through its meaning, evoking images of pastoral landscapes. Perley has a distinctive vintage quality that aligns with the revival of old-fashioned names in contemporary naming trends. Though uncommon throughout its history, it peaked in popularity in the early 1900s in the United States. The name's soft sound, nature-inspired meaning, and quaint character appeal to parents seeking something both unique and nostalgic.
Famous People Named Perley
- Perley Brown JohnsonU.S. Congressman from Ohio
- Perley Day Wilderbrother,in,law of novelist Laura Ingalls Wilder
- Perley A. ThomasAmerican industrialist
- Perley Ason RossAmerican physicist
- Perley Poore SheehanAmerican novelist and screenwriter
- Lt. Perley C. J. Cheneycaptured by Captain John S. Mosby in 1863 during the American Civil War