Morley

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Morley

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Detailed Information About The Name Morley

The name 'Morley' has both English and Scottish origins. In English, 'Morley' is a habitational name derived from the Old English words 'mor', meaning 'marsh', and 'leah', meaning 'clearing' or 'meadow'. This suggests that the name originally referred to someone who lived near a clearing in a marshy area. In Scotland, 'Morley' is believed to be a variant of the Gaelic name 'Maolmhoire', which means 'servant of Mary'.

The name 'Morley' has been recorded in various forms throughout history. In the Domesday Book of 1086, the surname 'de Merlaie' appeared, which is considered one of the earliest instances of the name. Over time, variations such as 'Moreleigh', 'Morleigh', and 'Moorley' emerged. During the medieval period, the 'mor' part of the name was sometimes associated with darker connotations, representing evil or an evil spirit. However, this negative association eventually faded away, and today 'Morley' is simply a surname with no negative connotations.

As a surname, 'Morley' has spread across the globe. Many Morleys can be found in England, particularly in Yorkshire and the surrounding areas, as well as in Scotland. The name has also migrated to other English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, where individuals likely carry the name due to their ancestors' immigration. Today, Morley is a fairly common surname, and individuals bearing this name can be found in various professions and walks of life.

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