HARVEY
Harvey
Background: Harvey is a surname of English origin that dates back to the medieval period. The name is derived from the Old Breton name "Haerviu" or "Haervu" which means "battle worthy" or "worthy of honor". The Harvey surname is believed to have been introduced to England by the Normans after the 1066 Norman Conquest.
Distribution and Variations: The surname Harvey is widely distributed throughout the United Kingdom and the English-speaking world, with concentrations in areas such as Cornwall, Essex, and Yorkshire. Variations of the surname include Harvie, Harvy, and Hervie.
Notable Individuals:
- William Harvey (1578–1657): An English physician and anatomist who made significant contributions to the understanding of the circulatory system.
- Steve Harvey (b. 1957): An American comedian, actor, and television host known for hosting shows such as "Family Feud" and "The Steve Harvey Show".
- Rachael Harvey (b. 1985): A British scientist specializing in environmental research and conservation efforts.
Significance in History: The Harvey surname has been associated with various historical figures and notable individuals across different fields, including medicine, entertainment, and academia. The impact of individuals bearing the Harvey surname has been felt in fields such as science, literature, and politics.
Coat of Arms: The Harvey family coat of arms features elements such as lions, shields, and crosses, symbolizing strength, protection, and valor.
Modern Usage: In modern times, the Harvey surname continues to be a commonly found surname, with many individuals proudly displaying their heritage through family reunions, genealogy research, and surname-based social groups.
References:
- Reaney, P. H., & Wilson, R. M. (1997). A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford University Press.
- Hanks, P., Coates, R., & McClure, P. (2016). The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland. Oxford University Press.
There are approximately 64,353 people named Harvey in the UK. That makes it the 100th most common surname in Britain. Around 988 in a million people in Britain are named Harvey.
Surname type: From given name or forename
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
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
- Robert
Female
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Julie
- Karen
- Laura
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.