Ashley
Meaning: Ash tree meadow; dweller near the ash tree clearing
Origin: Old English — from æsc (ash tree) + leah (meadow, clearing)
Gender: Unisex
Rank in Ireland: #481
Total births: 1,239
History: Ashley was a familiar name in the flax fields and spinning mills of east Donegal, where industry sustained families for generations. The name reflects hard work and the rhythm of Irish rural enterprise. It is an honest and steadfast choice.
Explore more at Irish Baby Names on BabyNa.me
Look at the data
Every number here comes directly from Ireland’s birth records. No estimates, no averages — just the counts.
| Current rank (2025) | #443 |
| Babies named Ashley in 2025 | 8 |
| Total recorded in Ireland | 1,239 |
| Peak year | 1987 (44 babies) |
| Highest rank ever | #128 |
| Years in records | 1964–2025 (62 years of data) |
| Change over last 5 years | ↑ 1 spot |
| Gender breakdown | 19% boys / 81% girls |
Frequently asked about Ashley
What does the name Ashley mean?
Ashley means “Ash tree meadow; dweller near the ash tree clearing” from Old English — from æsc (ash tree) + leah (meadow, clearing) roots.
What is the origin of the name Ashley?
Ashley has Old English — from æsc (ash tree) + leah (meadow, clearing) origin. The traditional meaning is “Ash tree meadow; dweller near the ash tree clearing”.
How popular is Ashley in Ireland?
Ashley ranked #443 in Ireland in 2025 — given to 8 babies that year.
When was Ashley most popular?
Ashley peaked in 1987 with 44 babies registered that year in Ireland.
Is Ashley a boy or girl name?
Ashley is used for both boys and girls. In the records, about 19% of Ashleys are boys and 81% are girls.
How long has Ashley been recorded in Ireland?
Ashley appears in birth records in Ireland across 62 years — from 1964 through 2025.