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Wesley
Pronounced WEZ-lee /ΛwΙz.li/High
Meaning: Western meadow; from Old English west (west) + leah (woodland clearing)High
Popularity in the U.S. Β· SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880βpresent). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
History & Origin
Wesley originated as an English place name meaning 'western meadow,' from Old English west and leah (woodland clearing or meadow). It became a surname and then a given name, particularly popular among Methodists honoring John Wesley.
As a first name Wesley was common in 19th-century England and America among Methodist families. It has remained steadily in the U.S. top 200 boys' names throughout the 20th and 21st centuries.
Variations
Nicknames
Famous Bearers
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John Wesley (1703β1791)English Anglican cleric and theologian who founded the Methodist movement.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Wesley mean?
Wesley is an Old English surname meaning 'western meadow,' from west and leah (woodland clearing).
How do you pronounce Wesley?
It is said WEZ-lee /ΛwΙz.li/ β two syllables, stress on the first.
Is Wesley a boy or girl name?
Wesley is primarily used as a boy's name, though it is occasionally given to girls.
How popular is Wesley?
Wesley has been steadily present in the U.S. top 200 boys' names for many decades.