Perley

Latin gem name
"pearl"

Perley Origin and Meaning

The name Perley is a girl's name.

Perley is a feminine name with English origins, though it began as a surname derived from Old English elements meaning 'pear clearing' or 'pear meadow.' It transitioned to use as a given name in the 19th century, initially more common for boys but gradually shifting toward feminine usage. The name carries a charming natural connection through its meaning, evoking images of pastoral landscapes. Perley has a distinctive vintage quality that aligns with the revival of old-fashioned names in contemporary naming trends. Though uncommon throughout its history, it peaked in popularity in the early 1900s in the United States. The name's soft sound, nature-inspired meaning, and quaint character appeal to parents seeking something both unique and nostalgic.

Famous People Named Perley

  • Perley Brown Johnson
    U.S. Congressman from Ohio
  • Perley Day Wilder
    brother,in,law of novelist Laura Ingalls Wilder
  • Perley A. Thomas
    American industrialist
  • Perley Ason Ross
    American physicist
  • Perley Poore Sheehan
    American novelist and screenwriter
  • Lt. Perley C. J. Cheney
    captured by Captain John S. Mosby in 1863 during the American Civil War