Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • All Collections
      • Census & Voter Lists
      • Birth, Marriage & Death
      • Military
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2006-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Headley

      Origin

      English, Potentially Old English

      Meaning

      Heather Field or Heather Meadow

      Variations

      Hadley, Headly, Hedley
      The first name Headley has its roots in the English language, particularly deriving from Old English. The etymology of the name is often associated with the terms heather and field or meadow, which collectively suggest a landscape characterized by heather plants, commonly found in the British countryside. This connection to nature imbues the name with a sense of tranquility and rustic charm, reflecting the beauty of natural landscapes.

      Historically, the name Headley can be traced back to early medieval England, where it was used as both a surname and a given name. Locations bearing the name, such as Headley in Hampshire, were indicative of geographical areas characterized by heather-covered land. As society evolved, the name began appearing in various records and documents, often linked to familial or geographical significance. Over time, it became increasingly recognized in genealogical studies and local histories, positioning it within the broader narrative of English naming conventions.

      In contemporary usage, Headley remains a relatively uncommon name but has seen a resurgence in interest, particularly as part of a trend toward nature-inspired names. It is occasionally used for both boys and girls, albeit more frequently for boys. Additionally, Headley is not limited to personal naming; various institutions, street names, and establishments carry the name, further anchoring its presence in modern culture. Overall, it embodies a blend of classic heritage and modern appeal, making it a distinctive choice for new generations.

      Based on our records...

      Brown

      Brown

      This is the most common surname associated with Headley.
      Elizabeth

      Elizabeth

      This is the most common name of those married to a Headley.
      Elizabeth

      Elizabeth

      This is the most common name for a child of a Headley.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      calendar.webp
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1860 is when there were the most people born with the first name Headley.

      Explore the origins of another name.