Chesley
2025 SSA
Below 5 births
About Chesley
Chesley is a masculine name of Old English origin meaning 'camp clearing' or 'meadow settlement.' With roots as an English surname, it transitioned to occasional first-name use in the 19th century. The name gained modern recognition through Chesley 'Sully' Sullenberger, the pilot who heroically landed US Airways Flight 1549 on the Hudson River in 2009. This association has given the name connotations of heroism and competence. While never extremely popular, Chesley maintains steady if uncommon usage, particularly in North America. The name has a dignified, somewhat traditional quality that balances uniqueness with familiarity, making it appealing to parents seeking a distinctive yet established name.
Chesley for girls
Chesley is an English surname that has evolved into a given name for both genders, though historically more common for males. Derived from Old English elements meaning 'camp' or 'clearing' and 'meadow,' it has roots in place names. As a feminine name, Chesley gained modest popularity in the late 20th century as part of the trend toward using surnames as first names. It offers a sophisticated sound with the approachable nickname 'Ches.' While never reaching mainstream popularity for girls, Chesley maintains appeal for parents seeking a distinctive name with traditional origins but modern sensibility.
Pronounced CHEZ-lee.
As of October 2026, Chesley ranked #7283 in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #636 in 1894.
Popularity & trends
Data table
| Year | US rank · boys | Births · boys | US rank · girls | Births · girls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2015 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2016 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2017 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2018 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2019 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2020 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2021 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2022 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2023 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2024 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2025 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
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Chesley on lists
Famous Chesleys
- Chesley Burnett "Sully" SullenbergerBoy
American pilot, author and activist ("Miracle on the Hudson")
- Chesley Knight BonestellBoy
Jr., American painter and illustrator
- Chesley G. PetersonBoy
U.S. Air Force general