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
      • 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
      • © 2002-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Shelley

      Origin 
      English

      Meaning 
      From the sloping field

      Variations 
      Shelly, Mishelle, Nishelle

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Shelley originates from English and derives its meaning from the phrase from the sloping field. Its origins can be traced back to medieval England, where names were often derived from a person's occupation or place of residence. It is believed that individuals with the name Shelley were likely associated with living near or working on sloping fields. The name Shelley has had a consistent presence throughout history, appearing in various records and documents.

      In modern-day usage, the name Shelley continues to be seen as a given name, though its popularity as a first name has waned. It is more commonly found as a name, passed down through generations and associated with family ancestry. The name Shelley can be found across English-speaking countries, with variations in spelling and pronunciation. While it may not be as prevalent as some other names, Shelley still holds cultural significance among those who bear it or have it as part of their family history.

      Overall, the name Shelley has a long history that ties it to the English language and the concept of residing near sloping fields. Its usage in history and modern times showcases its enduring presence and connection to personal identity and heritage.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Shelley.
      Smith

      is the most common surname for Shelley.

      David

      is the most common spouse name for Shelley.

      Shelley

      is the most common child name for Shelley.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1952 is when there were the most people born with the first name Shelley.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.