FILES
Files
The surname Files is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word "fugol", meaning bird. The name was likely originally used as a nickname for someone thought to resemble a bird, or perhaps as an occupational name for a bird catcher.
Distribution and Variants
The Files surname is relatively rare, with most instances found in the southern regions of England. Variants of the name include Fyles, Fils, and Phylys.
Notable Individuals
- John Files (1809-1884): An English painter known for his landscape and genre paintings.
- Sophie Files (born 1985): British author and journalist, best known for her works on modern culture and society.
Coat of Arms
The Files family has a coat of arms that features a shield with a depiction of a bird, paying homage to the name's avian origins.
Historical Significance
The Files surname has a rich history, with individuals bearing this name making contributions to various fields such as the arts, literature, and academia throughout the centuries.
References
- Hanks, P., & Hodges, F. (2006). A Dictionary of Surnames (Oxford Quick Reference). Oxford University Press.
- Reaney, P. H., & Wilson, R. M. (2008). A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford University Press.
There are approximately 117 people named Files in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Files.
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
- Angus
- Campbell
- David
- Donald
- Graham
- John
- Keith
- Mark
- Robert
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Alice
- Barbara
- Denise
- Janis
- Jill
- Julie
- Kathy
- Lauren
- Lisa
- Lucy
- Lynn
- Margaret
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.