COWLEY

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Cowley

Cowley is a surname of English origin hailing from various places in England, most notably from the village of Cowley in Oxfordshire. The name is derived from the Old English words "cū", meaning cow, and "lēah", meaning wood or clearing, suggesting an ancestral connection to an area where cows were prevalent.

The Cowley family name is associated with a rich history and has been traced back to early medieval times. The surname has seen variations in spelling over the centuries, including Cowly, Caulley, and Coley.

Notable individuals bearing the surname Cowley have made significant contributions in various fields, including literature, academics, military service, and the arts. The name continues to be found across the United Kingdom and in countries with historical ties to Britain.

The Coat of Arms associated with the Cowley surname typically features traditional heraldic symbols denoting strength, loyalty, and heritage. As with many English surnames, the lineage of the Cowley family has been carefully documented in genealogical records, providing insight into the heritage and legacy of those who bear the name.

There are approximately 10,845 people named Cowley in the UK. That makes it the 853rd most common surname in Britain. Around 167 in a million people in Britain are named Cowley.

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
Christopher
David
James
John
Michael
Paul
Richard
Robert
Stephen

Female

Christine
Elizabeth
Emma
Joanne
Karen
Margaret
Mary
Patricia
Rebecca
Sarah
Susan

Similar and related surnames

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