Waverley Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

About Waverley

While the Waverly spelling is far more popular (for girls at least), Waverley is linked more closely to Walter Scott's popular 1814 novel, whose hero is a young English soldier named Edward Waverley. It is believed that Scott named the novel after the model of pen he used to write it, though as a place and surname, it actually means "from the quivering meadow" or "clearing with quivering aspen trees".

Waverley for boys

Used occasionally for boys in the early 19th century, the link to the classic novel gives it more substance as a unisex choice.

Waverley for girls#7864 US

Waverley is a feminine name derived from English place names, originally meaning "meadow of quivering aspens" from Old English roots. The name gained literary recognition through Sir Walter Scott's famous novel "Waverley" published in 1814. As a first name, Waverley blends natural imagery with literary sophistication, appealing to parents seeking a name with cultural depth. The name evokes images of gentle movement and natural beauty. While traditionally used for both genders, it has become more commonly associated with girls in recent decades. The alternative spelling Waverly is also popular. This elegant name remains uncommon enough to be distinctive while still familiar enough to be easily recognized and pronounced.

Pronounced WAY-ver-lee.

As of October 2026, Waverley ranked #4127 in US births in 1935 SSA.