Wesley: Meaning, origin and popularity
Pronounced WES-lee · 2 syllables
Wesley means “western meadow”, from English.
Several places in England, from Old English west (“west”) + leah (“wood, clearing”). Equivalent to west + -ley (“lea”).
- Meaning
- western meadow
- Origin
- English
- Pronunciation
- WES-lee
- US rank (2025)
- #52
- US babies a year
- about 5,041 (2021–2025)
- Peak
- around 2020
- Style
- Rising, Classic
- Nicknames
- Wes
How popular is Wesley?
Wesley was the #52 name in the US in 2025, given to 5,679 babies. It’s rising: up 71% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 2020.
Most popular in Maine (#6), Wyoming (#7), New Hampshire (#9).
Around the world
| Country | Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | #52 |
| England & Wales | #629 |
| Scotland | #892 |
| France | #528 |
| Canada | #45 |
| Australia | #302 |
How old are people named Wesley?
Half of US adults named Wesley are older than 44; most are between 21 and 78. (Estimated from US births by year and life tables.)
Sibling names for Wesley
Names that real brothers and sisters of people named Wesley have, from family records on Wikidata, most common first.
- Brick
- Chuck
- Freddie
- Dean
Names like Wesley
Chosen by the same families or with a similar style and era.
On these lists
Questions about Wesley
What does the name Wesley mean?
Wesley means “western meadow”. It comes from English.
How do you pronounce Wesley?
Wesley is pronounced WES-lee.
How popular is the name Wesley?
Wesley was the #52 name in the US in 2025, given to 5,679 babies. It’s rising: up 71% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 2020.
How old are people named Wesley?
Half of US adults named Wesley are older than 44. Most are between 21 and 78.