Ainsley is a name of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic word "Aindreas," which means "manly" or "courageous." It is also associated with the Irish surname Ainsworth, which comes from the Old English words "Änisc" meaning "only" and "worð" meaning "enclosure," hence the meaning "living alone in an enclosure."
The name Ainsley has a rich history dating back to medieval times. It was often used as a surname before becoming popular as a given name in the 20th century. Some notable individuals with the name include American actor and director Ainsley Bailey, known for his role in the television series "General Hospital," and English cricketer Ainsley Dunbar.
In terms of popularity, Ainsley has been used relatively infrequently as a given name compared to many other names. According to data from the Social Security Administration in the United States, it has never reached the top 1000 most popular boys' names since records began in 1879. However, it is worth noting that its use has fluctuated over time, with peaks in popularity occurring in the mid-20th century.
Overall, Ainsley is a unique and historic name with a strong meaning and Scottish heritage. Its relative rarity as a given name means that those who bear this name may stand out and have a distinctive identity.
"Ainsley has seen a rise and fall in popularity over the decades, with peaks in recent years like 2022's 11 births."