Bitter, pearl, or field of hay
Mailey is a modern phonetic variant that likely stems from the Irish name Molly or the English surname-name Marley. As a diminutive of Mary, it carries the meaning 'bitter', while its association with Marley links it to 'pleasant seaside meadow'. It is often chosen by parents seeking a softer alternative to Hailey or Riley.
About 19 girls were named Mailey in 2025.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
