COILEY
Coiley
Origin and Meaning: The British surname Coiley is derived from the Old English personal name “Cola”, which means “charcoal” or “coal”. The suffix “-ey” typically indicates a settlement or clearing, suggesting that the surname may have originated from a place associated with charcoal burning or coal mining.
Historical Significance: The Coiley surname has been recorded in various regions across the United Kingdom, with historical records dating back several centuries. The name may have different spellings and variations, such as "Cowley" or "Colely", as is common with many surnames.
Distribution and Variants: The distribution of the Coiley surname in the UK is relatively low, with concentrations in specific regions such as Scotland and Northern Ireland. Variants of the name may include "Colley" and "Coley", reflecting regional dialects and pronunciation variations.
Notable Individuals: While the Coiley surname may not be widely recognised in historical records, there have been individuals bearing the name who have made contributions in various fields. Further research may uncover specific notable individuals associated with the Coiley surname.
Modern Presence: Today, the Coiley surname is relatively rare but continues to be passed down through generations of families. Those bearing the name may trace their ancestry to regions where the name was historically prominent, while others may have connections to the name through migration and intermarriage.
References:
- Reaney, P. H., and Wilson, R. M. (1997). A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford University Press.
- Hanks, P., Coates, R., and McClure, P. (2016). The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland. Oxford University Press.
There are approximately 140 people named Coiley in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Coiley.