DOUGHTY
Doughty
Doughty is an English surname of medieval origins, with its earliest recorded instances dating back to the 13th century. The name is derived from the Middle English word "doughty," meaning brave, valiant, or strong. It is thought to have originally been used as a nickname for someone who displayed these qualities or as a descriptive term for a person's character.
Origins and Distribution
The surname Doughty has its roots in various regions throughout England, with significant concentrations in Yorkshire, Lancashire, and Lincolnshire. Over time, individuals bearing the surname migrated to other parts of the British Isles and beyond, leading to its presence in countries such as the United States, Australia, and Canada.
Notable Bearers
Throughout history, several individuals bearing the surname Doughty have achieved prominence in various fields. These include:
- Sir Charles Montagu Doughty (1843–1926) – Renowned English poet and traveller, best known for his narrative poem "Travels in Arabia Deserta."
- Thomas Doughty (circa 1545–1578) – English explorer and navigator who accompanied Sir Francis Drake on his circumnavigation voyage, though he would later be accused of treason and executed.
Modern Variants and Spellings
Over the centuries, variations in the spelling of the surname Doughty have emerged, reflecting changes in language and dialect. Common alternative forms include Dowty, Doughtie, and Doughtie, among others.
In contemporary times, individuals with the surname Doughty continue to contribute to a diverse array of professions and pursuits, enriching the legacy of this ancient lineage.
There are approximately 7,711 people named Doughty in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,219th most common surname in Britain. Around 118 in a million people in Britain are named Doughty.
Surname type: Nickname
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Ireland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Robert
Female
- Carol
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Jacqueline
- Julie
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Patricia
- Sally
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.