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Name meaning & originHailey

/HAY-lee/

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Hailey is an English girl's name pronounced /HAY-lee/. The name literally means a hay meadow or a cleared forest clearing.

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Meaning of Hailey

The name literally means a hay meadow or a cleared forest clearing.

It is derived from the Old English words 'heg' (hay) and 'leah' (clearing, meadow, or wood). Originally, it functioned as an English surname and a place name for various locations in England, such as Hailey in Oxfordshire. It transitioned into a popular given name during the late 20th century.

Origin
English
Pronunciation
/HAY-lee/

Cultural background

While historically a surname, Hailey is now predominantly used as a feminine given name in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

Variations & nicknames

  • Hayley
  • Haley
  • Haleigh
  • Haylee
  • Hailee
  • Haylie

Famous people named Hailey

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Hailey Bieber

    American model and media personality

    Fashion · Modern

  • Hailee Steinfeld

    Academy Award-nominated actress and singer

    Film and Music · Modern

  • Hailey Duke

    Olympic alpine ski racer

    Sport · Modern

  • Hailey Whitters

    American country music singer-songwriter

    Music · Modern

  • Haley Joel Osment

    Actor known for 'The Sixth Sense'

    Film · Modern

Frequently asked about Hailey

What is the most common spelling of Hailey?
While 'Hailey' is very popular, 'Hayley' and 'Haley' are also widely used traditional variations.
Is Hailey a gender-neutral name?
In modern usage, it is almost exclusively given to girls, though its history as a surname makes it technically unisex.
Does the name Hailey have a religious meaning?
No, the name has secular roots in Old English nature terms related to agriculture and landscapes.

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