DAWE
Dawe
Overview: Dawe is a surname of English origin, specifically found in the southwestern regions of England, particularly in the counties of Cornwall and Devon. The surname is believed to be of patronymic origin, derived from the Middle English personal name "Daw" or "Dawe," which itself is a diminutive of the name "David." The name Dawe is widespread in the UK and has variations in spelling like Daw, Daws, and Daugh.
Historical Origins: The Dawe surname has ancient roots, with recorded instances dating back to the 13th century. It is thought to have originated as a name to denote the son of a man named Daw or David, reflecting the prevalent practice of using patronymic surnames in medieval England. The name Dawe likely spread as families migrated and settled across different regions of England over the centuries.
Distribution and Variations: The Dawe surname is most concentrated in the southwestern counties of Cornwall and Devon, regions where the name has historically been prominent. Variations like Daw, Daws, and Daugh can also be found in other parts of the UK, reflecting the evolution of surnames over time. The distribution of the Dawe surname may also be influenced by patterns of migration and settlement.
Notable Individuals: The Dawe surname has been borne by several notable individuals throughout history, including:
- Sir William Dawes (1671–1724) – An English clergyman who served as Archbishop of York.
- James Dawe (1803–1852) – A renowned British artist known for his portrait paintings.
- Teresa Dawe (b. 1965) – A contemporary British author of mystery novels.
Modern Popularity: In modern times, the Dawe surname remains in use across the UK and in other parts of the world where individuals of British descent have settled. It continues to be passed down through generations as a familial link to ancestral roots in the southwestern regions of England. The Dawe surname is part of the diverse tapestry of British surnames that reflect the country's rich linguistic and cultural history.
In conclusion, the Dawe surname is a testament to the enduring legacy of medieval naming practices in England and the diverse heritage of the British Isles. Its prevalence in Cornwall and Devon, as well as its presence in wider society, underscores the longstanding impact of family names in shaping identities and connections across generations.
There are approximately 4,202 people named Dawe in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,222nd most common surname in Britain. Around 65 in a million people in Britain are named Dawe.
Surname type: From given name or forename
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
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Michael
- Nicholas
- Peter
- Richard
- Stephen
- William
Female
- Barbara
- Helen
- Karen
- Lucy
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- Patricia
- Rebecca
- Sarah
- Susan
- Tina
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.