Wiley is an English given name that has its origins in the Middle Ages. It is derived from the Old English word "wīg" which means "war". The name Wiley was initially used as a surname, but over time it has evolved into a first name for boys.
The name Wiley is often associated with intelligence and wit, due to its meaning of "clever" or "skillful in warfare". In literature, the character Wiley E. Coyote from the Looney Tunes series is known for his cunning and clever schemes despite always failing to catch the Road Runner. However, it's important to note that these associations are not universally applicable to all individuals named Wiley.
Historically, the name Wiley has been used in various parts of the world, particularly in English-speaking countries such as England, Ireland, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Some notable people with the name Wiley include American football coach Bill Walsh, musician Keefus Ciancia, and actor Wiley Baker.
In conclusion, Wiley is an English given name with origins dating back to the Middle Ages. Its meaning of "clever" or "skillful in warfare" adds depth and intrigue to its historical significance. Despite its associations with intelligence and wit, it's important to remember that each individual named Wiley has their own unique personality and characteristics.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Wiley has seen a significant increase in popularity over time in the United States. The first recorded birth was in 1921 with 5 occurrences. The following year saw an increase to 6 births. After a gap of several years, there were again 6 births in 1928 and 5 births in 1932.
However, it wasn't until the late 20th century that Wiley started to gain more traction as a baby name. In 1997, there were 6 births with this name, and this number continued to rise steadily throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s.
In recent years, Wiley has become even more popular. Between 2013 and 2023, the number of births with this name increased significantly, from 16 in 2013 to a peak of 31 in 2023. This represents an impressive growth in popularity over time.
Overall, since 1921, there have been a total of 347 babies named Wiley born in the United States. It is clear that this name has gained significant traction and continues to be chosen by parents for their children today.