Miley

Miley became widely familiar through singer and actor Miley Cyrus, whose childhood nickname developed from “smiley.” That specific naming story explains the modern association with smiling. It is not evidence that Miley is an ancient word with a universal translation of happiness.

Families can now choose Miley independently of the singer’s personal history. Its two-syllable sound resembles names such as Riley, while the initial M gives it a different opening. Miley does not need a longer formal version on documents. If a family chooses it for its cheerful association, that can be explained as an association rather than a literal ancient-language meaning.