Summary

Surname Stanley is of English origin, derived from the Old English word 'stan', meaning 'stone', and 'leah', meaning 'clearing'. The surname originated from a place name and was often given to those dwelling near a stony clearing or rocky terrain. The Stanley family has a long and notable history, with various prominent figures associated with the name.
There are
96867
Stanleys in the USA
Stanley is the
321st
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Stanley

HenryMorton

Henry Morton Stanley was a Welsh journalist and explorer who is famous for his exploration of central Africa and his search for the source of the Nile River. He is known for his famous greeting 'Dr. Livingstone, I presume?' when he finally met the Scottish explorer David Livingstone in 1871.

StanleyKubrick

Stanley Kubrick was an American film director, screenwriter, and producer. He is considered one of the greatest filmmakers in cinematic history and has directed iconic movies such as '2001: A Space Odyssey,' 'A Clockwork Orange,' and 'The Shining.'

StanleyTucci

Stanley Tucci is an American actor, writer, producer, and director. He has appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including 'The Devil Wears Prada,' 'Julie & Julia,' and 'The Hunger Games' series.

StanleyBaldwin

Stanley Baldwin was a British Conservative Party politician who served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom three times in the 1920s and 1930s. He is known for his conservative policies and his leadership during challenging times, including the Great Depression and the abdication crisis of King Edward VIII.

RichardStanley

Richard Stanley is a South African filmmaker known for his cult classic film 'Hardware' and his involvement in the ill-fated production of 'The Island of Dr. Moreau.' He has also directed documentaries and short films.

StanleyMatthews

Stanley Matthews was an English footballer who is considered one of the greatest players of his generation. He played as a winger and was known for his exceptional dribbling and crossing abilities. Matthews had a long and successful career, playing for various clubs including Stoke City and Blackpool.

StanleyHolloway

Stanley Holloway was an English actor, singer, and comedian. He is best known for his roles in the films 'My Fair Lady' and 'Brief Encounter.' Holloway was also a popular entertainer on the British stage and radio.

StanleyDonen

Stanley Donen was an American film director and choreographer. He is known for directing classic musical films such as 'Singin' in the Rain' and 'On the Town.' Donen received an honorary Academy Award in 1997 for his contributions to the film industry.

StanleyElkin

Stanley Elkin was an American novelist and short story writer known for his unique writing style and satirical take on American culture. He received numerous awards for his work, including the National Book Critics Circle Award for Fiction.

StanleyKunitz

Stanley Kunitz was an American poet who served as the Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress. He received numerous awards for his poetry, including the Pulitzer Prize. Kunitz's poetry often explored themes of nature, love, and the human condition.

Stanley Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Stanley' is of English origin. It is derived from the Old English personal name 'Stānleah,' which means 'stone wood' or 'stony clearing.' The name was originally a locational surname, referring to someone who lived near a stony clearing or woods.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Stanley' is most common in English-speaking countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. It is also found in smaller numbers in countries with historical connections to England.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Stanley' include 'Staunley' and 'Standley.'
Migration and ImmigrationThe name 'Stanley' has been carried by immigrants to various countries, especially during periods of British colonization and emigration. Many people with the surname 'Stanley' have migrated to countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.