Paisley: a female name of Old English (Anglo-saxon) origin meaning "This name derives from a Scottish surname, originally from the name of a town".It derives from the Old English (Anglo-saxon) word (pasgill) (passeleg) (Pæssa) (Pàislig).
In Old English (Anglo-saxon) tradition, Paisley holds special significance as a feminine name representing This name derives from a Scottish surname, originally from the name of a town. This name has been cherished across generations, carrying with it the wisdom and heritage of Old English (Anglo-saxon) culture. Its enduring popularity speaks to its universal resonance.
Quick Facts About Paisley
Quick facts about Paisley
Origin
Old English (Anglo-saxon), Brythonic, Greek
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from a Scottish surname, originally from the name of a town. This name is of uncertain origin; some sources suggest a derivation either from the Brythonic word “pasgill” (pasture), or more likely “passeleg” (basilica “major church”), itself derived from the Greek “βασιλική” (basilica). However, some Scottish place-name books suggest “Pæssa’s wood/clearing,” from the Old English personal name “Pæssa,” “clearing,” and leāh, “wood.” Pasilege (1182) and Paslie (1214) are recorded previous spellings of the name. The Gaelic spelling is Pàislig. Paisley pattern, which involves a Persian inspired tear-shaped design, comes from the town.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
(pasgill) (passeleg) (Pæssa) (Pàislig)
How to Pronounce Paisley
Paisley is pronounced /ˈpeɪzli/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Pai-sle-y
Say it like: "PEEEHZLEE"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Paisley is predominantly used in english speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
english
Frequently Asked Questions About Paisley
What does the name Paisley mean?
Paisley means "This name derives from a Scottish surname, originally from the name of a town. This name is of uncertain origin; some sources suggest a derivation either from the Brythonic word “pasgill” (pasture), or more likely “passeleg” (basilica “major church”), itself derived from the Greek “βασιλική” (basilica). However, some Scottish place-name books suggest “Pæssa’s wood/clearing,” from the Old English personal name “Pæssa,” “clearing,” and leāh, “wood.” Pasilege (1182) and Paslie (1214) are recorded previous spellings of the name. The Gaelic spelling is Pàislig. Paisley pattern, which involves a Persian inspired tear-shaped design, comes from the town.". The name comes from (pasgill) (passeleg) (Pæssa) (Pàislig). This old english (anglo-saxon) name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Paisley for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from a Scottish surname, originally from the name of a town. This name is of uncertain origin; some sources suggest a derivation either from the Brythonic word “pasgill” (pasture), or more likely “passeleg” (basilica “major church”), itself derived from the Greek “βασιλική” (basilica). However, some Scottish place-name books suggest “Pæssa’s wood/clearing,” from the Old English personal name “Pæssa,” “clearing,” and leāh, “wood.” Pasilege (1182) and Paslie (1214) are recorded previous spellings of the name. The Gaelic spelling is Pàislig. Paisley pattern, which involves a Persian inspired tear-shaped design, comes from the town." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Paisley's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Paisley?
Paisley has old english (anglo-saxon) and brythonic and greek origins. The name traces back to (pasgill) (passeleg) (Pæssa) (Pàislig). The name remains closely tied to english naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The old english (anglo-saxon) meaning "This name derives from a Scottish surname, originally from the name of a town. This name is of uncertain origin; some sources suggest a derivation either from the Brythonic word “pasgill” (pasture), or more likely “passeleg” (basilica “major church”), itself derived from the Greek “βασιλική” (basilica). However, some Scottish place-name books suggest “Pæssa’s wood/clearing,” from the Old English personal name “Pæssa,” “clearing,” and leāh, “wood.” Pasilege (1182) and Paslie (1214) are recorded previous spellings of the name. The Gaelic spelling is Pàislig. Paisley pattern, which involves a Persian inspired tear-shaped design, comes from the town." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Paisley a boy or girl name?
Paisley is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In old english (anglo-saxon) tradition, Paisley has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from a Scottish surname, originally from the name of a town. This name is of uncertain origin; some sources suggest a derivation either from the Brythonic word “pasgill” (pasture), or more likely “passeleg” (basilica “major church”), itself derived from the Greek “βασιλική” (basilica). However, some Scottish place-name books suggest “Pæssa’s wood/clearing,” from the Old English personal name “Pæssa,” “clearing,” and leāh, “wood.” Pasilege (1182) and Paslie (1214) are recorded previous spellings of the name. The Gaelic spelling is Pàislig. Paisley pattern, which involves a Persian inspired tear-shaped design, comes from the town." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Paisley?
Paisley is pronounced "/ˈpeɪzli/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Paisley is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with old english (anglo-saxon) names, listening to a native speaker say Paisley can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Paisley?
Paisley is moderately popular with steady usage. With moderate popularity, Paisley offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Paisley's popularity may vary between old english (anglo-saxon) communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from a Scottish surname, originally from the name of a town. This name is of uncertain origin; some sources suggest a derivation either from the Brythonic word “pasgill” (pasture), or more likely “passeleg” (basilica “major church”), itself derived from the Greek “βασιλική” (basilica). However, some Scottish place-name books suggest “Pæssa’s wood/clearing,” from the Old English personal name “Pæssa,” “clearing,” and leāh, “wood.” Pasilege (1182) and Paslie (1214) are recorded previous spellings of the name. The Gaelic spelling is Pàislig. Paisley pattern, which involves a Persian inspired tear-shaped design, comes from the town." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Paisley holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Paisley commonly used?
Paisley is used primarily in english naming traditions. Though old english (anglo-saxon) in origin, Paisley found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from a Scottish surname, originally from the name of a town. This name is of uncertain origin; some sources suggest a derivation either from the Brythonic word “pasgill” (pasture), or more likely “passeleg” (basilica “major church”), itself derived from the Greek “βασιλική” (basilica). However, some Scottish place-name books suggest “Pæssa’s wood/clearing,” from the Old English personal name “Pæssa,” “clearing,” and leāh, “wood.” Pasilege (1182) and Paslie (1214) are recorded previous spellings of the name. The Gaelic spelling is Pàislig. Paisley pattern, which involves a Persian inspired tear-shaped design, comes from the town." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Paisley into their naming traditions. A child named Paisley will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Paisley is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.