Handley

Handley is an uncommon masculine name that originated as an English surname derived from a place name, combining the Old English elements 'hand' and 'leah' meaning 'clearing' or 'meadow.' As a first name, Handley remains quite rare, maintaining a distinguished, traditional quality with its English heritage. The name has connections to various locations in England, including Handley, Cheshire, and Six Handley in Dorset. While primarily used as a family name passed down through generations, its transition to first-name usage follows the trend of surname-to-first-name conversion seen with names like Bradley and Wesley. Handley carries a formal, somewhat aristocratic tone and might appeal to parents seeking a distinctive English-sounding name with historical roots.

Pronounced HAND-lee.

As of October 2026, Handley ranked #3993 in US births in 1923 SSA.