Origin
English surname originally meaning 'bailiff' or 'steward' in Old English, from 'bail' (to oversee) and 'ley' (clearing or meadow). Historically used as a surname, it became a given name in the 20th century. The name 'Bailey' does not have Aboriginal or Māori origins and is primarily of Anglo-Saxon heritage.
Meaning
Literal translation: 'bailiff's meadow' or 'steward's clearing'. In the Australian context, it conveys qualities of guardianship and pastoral association, often evoking image of open spaces and pastoral life.
Pronunciation
/ˈbeɪli/ (BAY-lee) with stress on the first syllable, following Australian English pronunciation conventions. Vowel is a long 'a' as in 'day', with a clear 'l' sound and a soft 'ee' ending.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Baileigh
- Bailee
- Baylee
Nicknames
- Bay
- Bails
- Bae
Name Days
- 14 March (St. Bailey's Day, a whimsical observance creating a cultural tradition)
- none officially recognised in Catholic or Orthodox calendars; some informal celebrations by communities that appreciate historical names.
- In indigenous contexts, no specific name day, but various days of cultural significance for Aboriginal and Māori communities.
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with bailey:
- Grace and Bailey
- Emma and Bailey
- Charlotte and Bailey
Fun Facts
- The name 'Bailey' gained popularity in Australia during the late 20th century, partly due to celebrity influences.
- In Australian bush culture, 'Bailey' is sometimes playfully associated with 'bush ballets' or outdoor gatherings.
- Australian racehorses named Bailey have competed in local races, adding to cultural familiarity.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name bailey:
- friendly
- approachable
- moderately adventurous
- creative
Aesthetic Qualities
Clean, simple, and classic appearance; the spelling and sound evoke friendliness and modernity, fitting contemporary Australian naming aesthetics. Suitable for both casual and professional contexts.
Geographical Distribution
Most popular in urban Australian regions such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, with some presence in rural communities where Anglo-Saxon names are traditional.
Numerological Significance
Name number: 6, which is associated with harmony, responsibility, and nurturing qualities, aligning with stereotypical Australian perceptions of the name.
Astrological Connections
No specific zodiac association, but the number 6 suggests a balanced and caring personality, resonating with traits valued in Australian cultural imagery.
Historical Context
Famous bearers include Australian actress and singer Bailey McConnell and several local sports personalities. Literature and media have embraced the name for characters representing warmth, approachability, and resilience.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name is easily adaptable across English-speaking cultures, maintaining pronunciation and spelling, with minor variants in spelling such as 'Baylee' or 'Baileigh' for stylistic preferences.
Famous People Named bailey
- Bailey McConnell (Singer and songwriter)
- Bailey Smith (Australian Rules footballer)
- Bailey Torres (fictional Australian character in a TV series)
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
---|---|
2024 | 7 |
2017 | 3 |
2016 | 11 |
2015 | 6 |
2014 | 1 |