Gurley is a name of English origin that has been used historically in the United Kingdom. It is believed to have derived from an occupational surname that was given to someone who worked as a miller or a maker of gurles, which were large round cakes baked from leavened dough. The name Gurley is also associated with places in England, such as Gurley in Cheshire and Gurley in Shropshire.
The meaning of the name Gurley is not explicitly clear, but it is thought to be related to its occupational origins. Some sources suggest that Gurley may mean "from the mill" or "of the mill," while others suggest it could mean "from the round cake" or "of the round cake."
There is no significant history associated with the name Gurley beyond its occupational origins and its association with certain places in England. However, it is worth noting that Gurley has been used as a given name in some cases, particularly in the United States.
In recent times, Gurley has gained some popularity as a unisex given name, although it remains relatively uncommon. It may be seen as an alternative to more traditional names like Gregory or Gertrude, and its unique sound and spelling can make it stand out.
Overall, Gurley is a name with a distinct occupational origin and an interesting history tied to specific places in England. While its meaning may not be explicitly clear, its connection to mills and round cakes makes it a name with a certain charm and character.
The name Gurley experienced a spike in popularity around the early 20th century, with 12 births recorded in 1915, followed by consistent but lower birth numbers throughout the decades up until the mid-20th century.