GOODBY
Goodby
Goodby is a surname of English origin, derived from the Middle English term "God-be-with-you" which was used as a farewell phrase. The surname is classified as a metonymic name, a type of surname created from words or phrases.
The Goodby surname is found predominantly in the United Kingdom, with historical records indicating its presence in various regions including Worcestershire, Yorkshire, and other parts of England. The name may have been first used as a nickname for a person known for frequently using the phrase "God be with you" in parting ways.
Over time, the surname has evolved in spelling from its original form to variations such as "Goodbye", "Goodby", or "Goodbey". Individuals with the surname Goodby have been documented in records including census data, church registries, and historical documents.
Today, the Goodby surname continues to be present in Britain, with individuals bearing this name found in diverse professions and regions across the country. The surname serves as a reminder of the historical use of phrases like "God be with you" in everyday language and as a part of English heritage.
There are approximately 324 people named Goodby in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around five in a million people in Britain are named Goodby.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alexander
- Andrew
- David
- Garry
- Jack
- James
- John
- Lee
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Robert
- Sean
- Steven
Female
- Claire
- Donna
- Gillian
- Janet
- Karen
- Linda
- Marie
- Patricia
- Paula
- Sarah