Damp meadow or watchful meadow
Derived from Old English elements, this surname-turned-given-name likely refers to a 'watchful meadow' or a 'damp meadow'. The first element 'wacu' suggests watchfulness or a wake, while 'leah' refers to a clearing or meadow. It is part of the modern trend of using 'lee' ending surnames for girls.
Fewer than 5 girls were named Wakely in 2025.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
