Ashley sits next to 4 phonetic neighbors — Ashton, Asher, and Leslie are the closest matches by sound. Most share Ashley's English-origin cluster, so the rhythm and vowel shape carry across the list.
You searched for names like
"ash tree clearing"
"resolute protector"
"modern invented name"
"skilled, expert, proficient"
"legendary king of Phrygia, golden touch"
"night"
"dweller at the broad woodland clearing"
"God has heard"
"green gemstone"
"earth, sea"
"friend, companion"
"of good appearance and strong physique"
"descendant of Bradan (salmon)"
"the kamani tree (Calophyllum inophyllum)"
"island"
"from the rose field"
"peace settlement"
"father of peace"
"healing, remedying"
"leader, head, principal one"
Similar sound: These names share phonetic patterns with Ashley — similar vowel sounds, consonant clusters, or rhythm.
Shared roots: Several names on this list have Old English origins, giving them the same cultural heritage as Ashley.
Rhythm: Ashley is a 2-syllable name. Names with the same syllable count tend to feel interchangeable when you're narrowing your list.