Gorey

Gorey is an English surname with medieval origins, derived from the Old English word "gara" meaning "triangular piece of land" and the Old Norse element "ey" meaning "island". The name likely initially referred to someone who lived near or owned land shaped like a triangle or surrounded by water.

The surname Gorey is most commonly associated with the south of England, particularly the counties of Kent and Sussex. Over time, individuals bearing the surname Gorey have spread across the United Kingdom and beyond, with notable branches of the family found in Ireland and the United States.

Throughout history, the Gorey family has been associated with various occupations and industries, including agriculture, trade, and military service. The name has also been linked to notable figures, such as authors, artists, and scholars.

Today, the surname Gorey serves as a reminder of the rich tapestry of British surnames and the diversity of their origins and meanings.

There are approximately 157 people named Gorey in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Gorey.

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

  • Alan
  • Andrew
  • Brian
  • Christopher
  • David
  • Edward
  • James
  • John
  • Kevin
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Nic
  • Richard
  • Stephen

Female

  • Amanda
  • Carole
  • Catherine
  • Claire
  • Jane
  • Kathleen
  • Lucy
  • Margaret
  • Michelle
  • Sheila
  • Shirley
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

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

BritishSurnames.uk is a Good Stuff website.