Bright meadow
Derived from Old English elements meaning 'bright' or 'clear' and 'meadow' or 'woodland clearing'. Originally a surname and a masculine name, it became a popular feminine choice in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Less common today
Shirley isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #509 in 1990.
US births per 5-year period, 1990βpresent (SSA data).
Iconic child star and diplomat
First Black woman elected to the US Congress
Renowned American horror and mystery writer
Academy Award-winning actress
Welsh singer known for James Bond themes
Lead singer of the band Garbage
Independent heiress and title character Β· Shirley by Charlotte BrontΓ«
Matriarch of the musical family Β· The Partridge Family