Cawley

Cawley is a surname of English origin, believed to have its roots in the Middle Ages. The name is derived from the Old English words "caw" meaning jackdaw, a type of small black bird, and "ley" meaning meadow or clearing. This suggests that the name may have initially been used to describe someone who lived near an area frequented by jackdaws.

The surname Cawley is predominantly found in the northern counties of England, particularly in Yorkshire and Lancashire. Over the centuries, bearers of the surname have spread to other parts of the United Kingdom and beyond, often as a result of migration or family connections.

Like many surnames of English origin, variations in spelling and pronunciation have occurred over time. Some variations of the Cawley surname include Cawly, Cawleigh, and Cawlee.

Individuals bearing the surname Cawley have made contributions in various fields, including academia, business, politics, and the arts. The name continues to be passed down through generations, contributing to the rich tapestry of British surnames.

In modern times, genealogical research and genetic testing have made it easier for individuals with the surname Cawley to trace their ancestry and connect with relatives around the world. This has helped preserve the heritage and legacy of the Cawley name for future generations.

There are approximately 4,959 people named Cawley in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,901st most common surname in Britain. Around 76 in a million people in Britain are named Cawley.

Surname type: Location or geographical feature

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Anthony
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Martin
  • Michael
  • Patrick
  • Paul
  • Robert
  • Thomas

Female

  • Christine
  • Elizabeth
  • Julie
  • Karen
  • Kathleen
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Michelle
  • Nicola
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Sheila
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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