Ashley: Name Day, Name Meaning & More
Name days are traditional observances celebrating the saint or feast associated with a given name, frequently marking a secondary birthday. Ashley possesses a rich history spanning centuries and continents, reflecting both early topographical roots and modern popularity. Originating as a place name related to the ash tree clearing, it conveys a calm and naturally elegant mood. For those in the USA, Ashley's specific name day is celebrated annually on May 14th. This commemoration highlights the name's established cultural significance and strong presence.
Name Day: Dates by Country
Ashley's name day is celebrated
on May 14 in the USA.
The Story Behind This Name
Ashley first appeared significantly in the USA as a masculine name, primarily in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Its major shift to a predominantly female name began accelerating rapidly in the 1960s. The name reached peak popularity for girls in the late 1980s and early 1990s, becoming one of the defining names of that generation. While its peak has passed, Ashley remains a highly recognizable and enduring choice within American culture. This dual history reflects its adaptability across different eras in the United States.
Name origin and meaning
The name Ashley originates from Old English place names, derived from combining two distinct ancient elements. The first element refers specifically to the “ash tree” (æsc), signifying a common natural feature found in the landscape. The second element, leah, translates generally to “clearing,” “meadow,” or “woodland.” Therefore, the name originally described a specific location rather than a person. This geographical foundation establishes Ashley's meaning as commonly interpreted as “ash tree clearing.”
Name Identity: Gender Classification
Ashley is classified as a strongly unisex name in general worldwide usage, although its popularity heavily favors one gender depending on the region. Historically in the UK and traditional American naming, Ashley was primarily a masculine name. However, since the mid-20th century, particularly in the United States, Canada, and Australia, Ashley has become overwhelmingly female. While retaining residual male usage, the strong female association in major English-speaking countries makes it a classic example of a cross-gender name. This versatility ensures its enduring presence across diverse naming traditions.
The Name Effect: Mood, Tone & Personality
The name Ashley often projects a mood that is highly balanced, sitting between classic softness and contemporary familiarity. It carries an inherently naturalistic tone due to its etymological connection to trees and woodland clearings. For many, Ashley evokes a sense of approachability, gentle elegance, and refined sweetness. Its decades of widespread popularity also grant it a nostalgic yet eternally youthful vibe. Ashley maintains a graceful and enduringly feminine personality.
A Perfectly Balanced Name with Unique Letters: Ashley
An isogrammic name is a unique type of name where no letter appears more than once. This characteristic makes it visually and structurally distinct, adding to its appeal. Such names are relatively rare, especially those with six or more letters, making them stand out even more. Having an isogrammic name gives it a balanced and harmonious look, making it a special choice.
Unlocking the Hidden Meaning of Name: Ashley
Your name is more than just a label - it holds a unique energy that influences your personality, destiny, and life path. Through numerology and astrology, we uncover the deeper meanings behind your name, revealing your strengths, challenges, and the energy you bring into the world.
Pythagorean Numerology: The Hidden Meaning of Name
Destiny number: 7 – The Seeker.
Keywords: Introspection, wisdom, spirituality, knowledge, analytical thinking.
Positive Traits: Deep thinker, philosophical, intuitive, intellectual, private.
Challenges: Can be aloof, secretive, or overly skeptical.
Life Path Meaning: A spiritual and intellectual journey of deep self-discovery.
Chaldean Numerology: Name Energy and Spiritual Insights
First name number: 9 - The Humanitarian.
Traits: Compassionate, idealistic, wise, selfless.
Strengths: Generous, charismatic, inspires others.
Challenges: Can be overly emotional, self-sacrificing, or struggle with boundaries.
The Cosmic Secret Code: What The Name Says About You
The name is linked to the planet that governs it, shaping the name's meaning and influencing the traits associated with it.
Planet: Neptune - Spirituality, Dreams, Creativity.
Neptune is the planet of mysticism, dreams, and intuition. Names ruled by Neptune tend to belong to highly imaginative, artistic, and spiritually attuned individuals. These names reflect deep emotional sensitivity, creativity, and an affinity for the unseen or mystical. People with Neptune-ruled names are often drawn to artistic and spiritual pursuits.
Name days: Name Ashley
This list shows name days in different countries where the name is written in the same form. The dates are based on traditional calendars and cultural name celebrations. If your name matches exactly, you can see when it is honored in various parts of the world.
| Country | Month | Day | Name days |
 USA | May | 14 | Asher, Ashlee, Ashleigh, Ashley, Ashlie, Ashlyn, Ashlynn, Ashton, Berk, Berkeley, Bourke, Burgess, Burke |
Ashley A Name of Natural Elegance
Ashley presents a compelling blend of historical depth and modern familiarity, having evolved from a topographical origin meaning "ash tree clearing." This name successfully transitioned from being primarily masculine to becoming a highly prevalent female name globally, classifying it as robustly unisex. Its prevalent tone is one of natural elegance, familiarity, and approachability, giving it enduring appeal. Ashley's established place in American culture is further marked by the observation of its name day on May 14th in the USA. Overall, Ashley stands as a timeless choice defined by its flexibility and gentle strength.
When Is Your Name Day?
Discover your name day quickly and easily with our name day search tool. Simply enter your name in the search box below, and you'll instantly see the exact date of your name day celebration. Find out when to celebrate and never miss a special occasion!
