Manley

Meaning

Derived from a place name meaning 'common land of the man' or 'manly meadow'.

Etymology

From Old English 'mann' (man) and 'leah' (clearing, meadow), indicating a topographic origin. The surname became established as a family name in medieval England.

About the Manley Surname

A topographic English surname referring to a meadow or clearing associated with a man. The name has been established for nearly a millennium and spread through British colonial expansion.

Distribution

Widespread throughout England and common in English-speaking countries.

Notable Bearers

Norman Manley (Jamaican politician), Michael Manley (Prime Minister of Jamaica)

People with the Manley Surname