Gillespie

Origin: The surname Gillespie is of Scottish and Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name "Mac Giolla Easbaig," meaning "son of the bishop's servant." The name is believed to have been introduced to Britain by Gaelic-speaking people from Ireland and Scotland.

History: The Gillespie surname has a rich history, with early recordings dating back to the 11th century in Scotland and Ireland. Over the centuries, the name has spread to various parts of the United Kingdom and beyond, carried by immigrants and descendants of Scottish and Irish settlers.

Notable Individuals: There have been several notable individuals bearing the surname Gillespie throughout history. These individuals have made significant contributions to various fields, including music, sports, academia, and politics. Notable examples include:

  1. Dizzy Gillespie (1917-1993): An iconic American jazz trumpeter, bandleader, and composer known for his innovative style and contributions to the development of bebop jazz.

  2. Sir Thomas Gillespie (1777-1844): A British military officer who served with distinction in the Napoleonic Wars and later became a Member of Parliament.

  3. Pamela Gillespie (b. 1985): A renowned British fashion designer known for her avant-garde designs and contributions to the fashion industry.

Variants: Over time, variations of the Gillespie surname have emerged, including Gilaspy, Gillispie, and Gilliespie, among others. These variants reflect the diverse ways in which the name has been adapted and anglicised by different generations and regions.

Legacy: The Gillespie surname continues to be borne by numerous individuals across the United Kingdom and beyond, maintaining a connection to its Scottish and Irish origins. The name serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage and historical ties shared between Scotland, Ireland, and Britain.

There are approximately 12,685 people named Gillespie in the UK. That makes it the 711th most common surname in Britain. Around 195 in a million people in Britain are named Gillespie.

Surname type: From name of parent

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
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Robert
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Anne
  • Catherine
  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Karen
  • Laura
  • Linda
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Sarah
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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