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
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • 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
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Chesley

      Origin

      English

      Meaning

      Clearing in the Woods or Meadows

      Variations

      Chelsey, Cheslyn, Cheslea
      The name Chesley is of English origin, derived from the combination of elements signifying clearing or open space in wooded areas or meadows. This name typically reflects a connection to nature, suggesting an association with serene landscapes, pastoral settings, and a harmonious coexistence with the environment. The etymological roots of Chesley indicate a sense of tranquility and openness, making it a name that embodies the essence of rural beauty.

      Historically, the name Chesley can be traced back to medieval England, where surnames often indicated geographic features or the occupation of those who bore them. It has been recorded in various forms, including as a surname among landowners and in some cases, as a given name. The name may have been used to denote individuals who resided near a clearing in a forest or an open meadow, reflecting their geographical ties and possibly their lifestyle. Over time, its usage evolved and adapted to changing cultural contexts while retaining its rooted meaning.

      In contemporary society, the name Chesley continues to see usage, albeit less commonly than more popular names. It is sometimes found as a given name for boys and occasionally for girls, maintaining its vintage charm. In addition, it occasionally appears in the realm of pop culture and literature, contributing to its ongoing relevance. Moreover, Chesley has gained recognition in various communities, symbolizing a blend of tradition and modernity. Its distinctiveness often appeals to parents seeking unique names with historical significance.

      Based on our records...

      Smith

      Smith

      This is the most common surname associated with Chesley.
      Mary

      Mary

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

      Chesley

      This is the most common name for a child of a Chesley.
      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?

      1908 is when there were the most people born with the first name Chesley.

      Explore the origins of another name.