Shirley

Fact-checked by Jaime Babiera

1. Shirley name meaning and origin

The name Shirley originated as a surname from the Old English words “scire,” meaning “bright” and “lēah” that means “wood” or “meadow.” While initially used primarily as a name of a place in England, it gained prominence as a given name in the late Middle Ages and started to become more popular since then. Its usage expanded even further following the publication of Charlotte Brontë's novel 'Shirley' in 1849, where the author notably assigned this name to her female protagonist.

As a given name, Shirley experienced its greatest popularity in the United States during the 1930s. The name reached its peak in popularity charts in 1935, ranking among the top five female names in America. Though its usage has declined since the late-20th century, Shirley remains recognized as a classic English name with distinctive literary connections and a meaning rooted in the natural landscape of medieval England.

References:

Shirley Name Meaning and Shirley Family History at FamilySearch

2. Shirley name popularity

Girl

Boy

in 2023

from 2022

Popularity of Shirley

United States

United Kingdom

Shirley is predominantly a female name in both the United States and the United Kingdom. The name gained significant popularity in the 1930s after the success of child star Shirley Temple. Its origin comes from an Old English place name meaning "bright clearing" or "bright meadow."

Though primarily associated with women, Shirley has occasionally been used as a male name in the United States, showcasing its versatility. The name has experienced fluctuating popularity over decades, peaking in the mid-20th century before gradually declining. Today, Shirley maintains cultural recognition while becoming less common for newborns, representing a classic name with strong historical ties.

3. Variations and nicknames of Shirley

The name Shirley has evolved significantly through cultural exchanges and linguistic adaptations. International variants include Sherley, Shirlee, and Sherlee in English-speaking countries. Shirlie is also a great alternative spelling worthy of consideration. Although the options are quite limited, they still prove that the name Shirley is culturally versatile.

Along with its formal variants, Shirley has generated numerous affectionate nicknames throughout generations. Traditional diminutives include Shirl and Sher, which remain popular among older generations. More playful versions like Shirls and Shari gained traction as well. Modern nicknames such as Leelee are derived from the latter portion of the name. Other variants include Cherry, Sher, and Sharee. The international influence has also contributed nicknames like Shirlita (Spanish), Siria (Italian), and Shirlin (Irish). Lili (French), Sher (German), and Shire (Italian). These diminutives demonstrate the name's remarkable versatility and enduring appeal across diverse communities worldwide.

4. Best name combinations with Shirley

names that pair well with Shirley:

Shirley Anne
Shirley Glenda
Shirley Danielle
Shirley Elizabeth
Shirley Grace
Shirley Rose
Shirley Jane
Shirley Marie
Shirley Elaine
Shirley Victoria
Shirley Erika
Shirley Louise
Shirley Stacey
Shirley Catherine
Shirley Eileen
Shirley Vera
Shirley Faye
Shirley Michelle
Shirley Patricia
Shirley Nicole

Rosa Shirley
Eleanor Shirley
Marion Shirley
Maxine Shirley
Melissa Shirley
Allison Shirley
Donna Shirley
Tatiana Shirley
Evelyn Shirley
Margaret Shirley
Erika Shirley
Penelope Shirley
Odette Shirley
Dale Shirley
Josephine Shirley
Jennifer Shirley
Laurie Shirley
Victoria Shirley
Alexandra Shirley

5. Numerology of Shirley name

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

6
S(1) + H(8) + I(9) + R(9) + L(3) + E(5) + Y(7) = 42 = 4+2 = 6
The 6 Destiny Number indicates someone who is nurturing, responsible, and service-oriented. Shirley likely has a natural inclination toward caregiving roles and creating harmony. In careers, she may excel in teaching, counseling, healthcare, or creative fields. In relationships, she values commitment, and tends to be loyal, supportive, and devoted.

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire Number):

5
Vowels: I(9) + E(5) = 14 = 1+4 = 5
The 5 Soul Urge reveals an inner desire for freedom, variety, and adventure. Shirley craves new experiences and dislikes any form of restrictions. At heart, she yearns for self-expression and fresh knowledge. In relationships, she needs space and excitement to accomodate her adaptable nature, potentially becoming restless and unpredictable with too much routine.

Personality Number:

1
Consonants: S(1) + H(8) + R(9) + L(3) + Y(7) = 28 = 2+8 = 10 = 1+0 = 1
This 1 Personality Number presents Shirley to the world as independent, pioneering, and assertive. Others likely see her as a leader with strong willpower. In social settings, she may come across as confident and self-reliant. This number suggests she projects strength and originality in first impressions.

Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.

6. Personality Traits Associated with the Name Shirley

The name Shirley often suggests someone who is:

Active and restless: – An energetic presence in any environment
Sentimental and thoughtful – Grounded with emotional awareness
Charismatic and charming – Carries calm confidence rather than flashiness
Community-oriented – Often associated with loyalty and care for others

Parents’ Key Takeaway

Shirley suits parents who value emotional stability, kindness, and inner strength over trend-driven naming.

7. Shirley in Pop Culture: Fictional Characters

Shirley has appeared across classic and modern pop culture:

Shirley Partridge – The caring mother figure in The Partridge Family
Shirley Bennett – A highly religious character from Community
Shirley Feeney – From Laverne & Shirley. One of the main characters in this sitcom.

Parents’ Key Takeaway

Pop culture reinforces Shirley as a name linked to resilience, humor, and emotional depth, making it memorable and relatable.

8. Names similar to Shirley

Like Shirley ? What about:

Shelden

Charlee

Tyrus

Bella

Aiden

Ethann

Darcy

Danah

Edmond

Robert

Golden

Bernice

Dasha

Caleb

Camille

Ahjin

Elise

Elaine

Genya

Caiden

Common sibling names

Sisters

Ella

Hazel

Heather

Charlie

Camille

Leslie

Annie

Mary

Elise

Darcy

Ainsley

Carter

Marlowe

Bella

Ashley

Charlee

Elaine

Ellis

Dana

Audrey

Brothers

Harvey

Charlie

Bradley

Caiden

Declan

Harold

Edgar

Bodie

Caleb

Aiden

Darcy

Alden

Eli

Darwin

Carter

Cayden

Edward

Weston

Teddy

Caden

Find the Perfect Name for Your Baby

A name is the first gift to your beloved baby. To find the perfect one, you still have something to do: answer below only what feels right; a single idea is enough to begin.

Find a

Any Gender

baby name that sounds lovely with the last name

Last Name

, and begins with the letter

Any Letter

It should end with the letter

Any Letter

and have a rhythm of

Any Number of

syllables.

I like the names that have a

Floral, Unique, Trendy

symbol or are inspired by

Any theme

theme.

I prefer the names of

Any Origin

Origin.

Search by name

Looking for baby name ideas, advice, meanings, and popularity.

Here are 0 baby name ideas that should work for you and your baby:

Jaime Babiera

Jaime Babiera is a team leader at Infinity Web Solutions. As a former research intern at Rappler and contributor of op-ed pieces to the Daily Guardian, he developed expertise in rigorous information verification and published substantive editorial outputs driven by professional integrity and factual accuracy. His body of work reflects a strong commitment to truth, transparency, and excellence, ensuring every piece he releases or project he leads is reliable and compelling.

Baby name lists including Shirley

Baby name trends of the 2000s

By Momcozy Care Team

Shirley

1. Shirley name meaning and origin

References:

2. Shirley name popularity

3. Variations and nicknames of Shirley

4. Best name combinations with Shirley

names that pair well with Shirley:

5. Numerology of Shirley name

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire Number):

Personality Number:

6. Personality Traits Associated with the Name Shirley

Parents’ Key Takeaway

7. Shirley in Pop Culture: Fictional Characters

Parents’ Key Takeaway

8. Names similar to Shirley

Like Shirley ? What about:

Common sibling names

Find the Perfect Name for Your Baby

Search by name

Here are 0 baby name ideas that should work for you and your baby:

Baby name lists including Shirley

Welcome 👋 😄