Whiteley

Topographic

Meaning

A person from a white or light-colored meadow or clearing.

Etymology

Combines Old English 'hwit' (white, light-colored) with 'leah' (meadow, clearing, woodland). The name originally indicated a distinctive meadow characterized by white flowers, light soil, or similar features.

About the Whiteley Surname

A topographic surname indicating a meadow or clearing with white or light-colored characteristics. The name reflects English descriptive place-naming traditions.

Distribution

Found throughout England and English-speaking countries, with particular prevalence in the United Kingdom.

Notable Bearers

Opal Whiteley, Peregrine Whiteley

People with the Whiteley Surname

Richard Henry Whiteley

Hon.