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Motley

♂ Boy

Motley Pronunciation

Motley is pronounced MOT-lee /ˈmɑt.li/High

Meaning: From an English surname/place-name (linked to a 'meeting' or 'stump' clearing); also the word 'motley', variedLow

In 30 seconds: Bold and surnamey: Motley is an old English place-name (a 'meeting clearing') with a rock-and-roll edge (Mötley Crüe). Distinctive and edgy.

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Origin LowEnglish

MeaningFrom an English surname/place-name (linked to a 'meeting' or 'stump' clearing); also the word 'motley', varied

U.S. rank (2024)#4024 ↗ Rising

2024 U.S. births27 boys (0.00% of U.S. boys)

Peak year2022

Total births (all-time)≈ 133

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Motley comes from an English surname and place-name (variously linked to a 'meeting' or 'stump' clearing; routes debated, which we note), and overlaps the word 'motley', 'varied, multicolored'. A bold, edgy surname-name.

It registers thinly in records. Rare, meeting-clearing at the (likely) root, and edgy.

Did you know? Motley overlaps the word 'motley' — varied, multicolored — and an old English place-name; the band Mötley Crüe gave it rock-and-roll swagger.

Overall data confidence 55%

Surname references — Motley — routes debated

Variations

MotelyMottley

Nicknames

Mot

Famous Bearers

Famous bearers coming soon.

If you like Motley…

Marley— a fellow musical -ley name

Ridley— a companion -ley surname-name

Huxley— another bold -ley name

Wesley— a fellow -ley classic

→ See all names like Motley

Browse the whole category: All English names → · All origins →

Frequently Asked

How do you pronounce Motley?

Motley is pronounced MOT-lee (/ˈmɑt.li/). Press play above to hear Motley said aloud.

How do you say Motley?

Motley is said MOT-lee (/ˈmɑt.li/). Press play above to hear Motley said aloud.

What does the name Motley mean?

Motley is an English place-name (a 'meeting clearing' line) and overlaps the word 'motley', 'varied'; the routes are debated.

Is Motley a boy or girl name?

Motley is a boy's name.

How popular is Motley?

Motley is a rare name in the U.S.