Pronunciation: [bˈe͡ɪlɪ] (IPA) 
The spelling of "bailey" can be deceiving, as it is not pronounced how it appears. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is written as /ˈbeɪli/. The "ai" in "bailey" is pronounced as a long "a" sound, like in the word "say." The "e" in "bailey" is silent, and the "y" is pronounced as a long "i" sound, like in the word "fly." So, the correct pronunciation of "bailey" is "BAY-lee."
Bailey is a noun that has multiple meanings depending on the context in which it is used. Primarily, it refers to an enclosed area or courtyard that is surrounded by defensive walls or fortifications, typically found within a castle or fortified settlement. In medieval times, the bailey served as a defensive structure, providing protection and serving as a safe haven for its inhabitants during times of attack or siege. It often housed various buildings, such as residential quarters, storage facilities, barracks, or stables.
Additionally, the term "bailey" can refer to the outermost court or ward of a prison, where exercise and recreational activities for inmates occur. It is typically a secured area that allows prisoners to move around freely within its confines.
Figuratively, "bailey" is used to describe a person's personal space or domain. It can denote the area or sphere of influence that an individual considers their own, where they exercise control and authority.
Overall, the term "bailey" denotes an enclosed space within a castle, a prison court for recreation, or a metaphorical space of control and influence. It encompasses the idea of boundaries, protection, and control within various contexts.
An area of ground within the walls of a fortress-applied to a prison, as Old Bailey.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "bailey" has its origins in the Old French word "baille" or "baile", which means "enclosure". It ultimately derives from the Latin word "ballīum", which also referred to an enclosed area. In medieval times, a bailey was a courtyard or an enclosed area within a castle or fortress, often surrounded by a wall or a palisade. The term was commonly used in the context of the Norman castles built in England after the Norman Conquest in 1066. Over time, "bailey" also came to refer to the dwelling or administrative area within a castle.
