GOVEY
Govey
Govey is a British surname with origins rooted in the medieval period. The surname is of Anglo-Saxon descent and is believed to have originated from the Old English word "gofa," meaning "godfather" or "godparent." Over time, the name evolved into the surname Govey, with variations such as Gofe, Goffe, and Gove also found in historical records.
Individuals bearing the surname Govey can be traced back in various regions across the United Kingdom, particularly in England. The name may have been derived from a person's occupation as a godfather, which was a significant role in medieval society. Alternatively, it could have been used to distinguish someone as the child of a godparent.
Like many British surnames, Govey has likely undergone multiple changes in spelling over the centuries, influenced by local dialects and varying pronunciations. This has resulted in a diverse range of spellings for the surname in historical records.
In contemporary times, individuals with the surname Govey can be found in different parts of the UK and beyond, with some branches of the Govey family having emigrated to other countries. As with many surnames, the name Govey may carry familial significance and a sense of heritage for those who bear it.
There are approximately 221 people named Govey in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around three in a million people in Britain are named Govey.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Anthony
- Brian
- Christopher
- Darren
- David
- George
- Lee
- Mark
- Paul
- Peter
- Steven
- Stuart
Female
- Barbara
- Beryl
- Catherine
- Christine
- Colette
- Jane
- Leigh
- Louise
- Samantha
- Shirley
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.