EVELYN
Evelyn
Evelyn is a prestigious British surname with a rich history that dates back to medieval times. The name is of Old French origin, derived from the Old French name "Aveline" or "Avelina", which means hazelnut or hazel tree. Over the centuries, the spelling of the surname has evolved to its current form, Evelyn.
Origin
The Evelyn surname is believed to have Norman roots, with the name first appearing in Norman England after the conquest in 1066. It is likely that the name was brought to England by Norman settlers and later took hold as a hereditary surname.
Notable Figures
- John Evelyn (1620–1706) - A renowned English writer, gardener, and diarist known for his diaries that provide invaluable insights into the 17th-century English society and culture.
- Percy Evelyn (1862–1942) - A British diplomat and writer who served as the British Consul-General in Belgrade and Cairo.
- Stuart Evelyn (born 1985) - An English actor famous for his roles in British television dramas and theatre productions.
Distribution
The Evelyn surname is primarily found in England, particularly in the southern regions like Sussex and Surrey, where the name has deep historical roots. It is also found in scattered concentrations across the United Kingdom, with notable pockets in Scotland and Wales.
Crest and Coat of Arms
The Evelyn family crest traditionally features heraldic symbols such as a gold lion, denoting strength and courage, set against a blue field. The coat of arms includes elements symbolising loyalty and heritage, which are important values in British heraldry.
The Evelyn surname embodies a sense of tradition, history, and nobility, making it a prominent and respected name in British culture and heritage.
There are approximately 338 people named Evelyn in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around five in a million people in Britain are named Evelyn.
Surname type: From given name or forename
Region of origin: Europe
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alexander
- Dennis
- George
- James
- John
- Paul
- Peter
- Philip
- Richard
- Robert
- Roger
- Stanley
- Victor
Female
- Anna
- Carolyn
- Catherine
- Charlene
- Christina
- Deborah
- Emma
- Judith
- Lucy
- Michelle
- Patricia
- Penelope
- Sarah
- Shirley
- Sonia