Malley

French

"unfortunate"

Malley Origin and Meaning

The name Malley is a girl's name.

Malley is a feminine name with Irish and Scottish Gaelic roots. It likely derives from the surname O'Malley or Malley, which comes from 'Ó Máille' meaning 'descendant of Máille' (a personal name thought to mean 'noble' or 'chief'). The name gained some recognition through association with the legendary Irish pirate queen Grace O'Malley. As a first name, Malley remains uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality. It has a contemporary sound while maintaining Celtic heritage, making it appeal to parents seeking a name with historical roots but a modern feel. The name can also be spelled Mally or Mallie.