Farley

Farley is an English surname of locational origin, derived from several places in England such as Farley in Hampshire, Staffordshire, Berkshire, and Somerset. The name originated from the Old English words "fearn" meaning fern and "leah" meaning clearing or meadow, implying someone who lived near a fern-covered meadow.

History

The Farley surname has ancient roots in England, dating back to medieval times. The first recorded instance of the Farley name was found in the 12th century in Worcestershire. Over the centuries, the name spread throughout the country, particularly in the southern regions.

Notable Bearers

Notable individuals with the surname Farley include:

  • Chris Farley (1964-1997): An American actor and comedian known for his work on Saturday Night Live and in films such as "Tommy Boy".
  • Marjorie Farley: A renowned British historian and author specialising in medieval English literature.

Modern Distribution

Today, Farley remains a relatively uncommon surname in the United Kingdom. It can also be found in countries with historical ties to England, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Crest and Coat of Arms

The Farley family crest features a shield with symbols representing elements such as strength, loyalty, and integrity, while the coat of arms may include heraldic elements such as lions, chevrons, and fleur-de-lis.

In conclusion, the surname Farley has a rich history rooted in English heritage, and its bearers have made significant contributions to various fields over the centuries.

There are approximately 8,425 people named Farley in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,121st most common surname in Britain. Around 129 in a million people in Britain are named Farley.

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
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Robert

Female

  • Claire
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Julie
  • Karen
  • Lisa
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Pamela
  • Patricia
  • Rebecca
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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