HAYS
Also recorded as Hay'S, Hay's
Hays
Hays is a surname of English and Scottish origin. The name is derived from the Old English and Old Norse word "hæg" or "haugr," meaning a hedge or an enclosure, which suggests that the original bearers of this surname may have lived near a hedged enclosure.
Origins
The surname Hays first appeared in England and Scotland, with various spellings such as Hays, Hayes, and Haighs. It has been traced back to the medieval era, and over time, bearers of the name have spread across the United Kingdom and the world.
Distribution
The surname Hays is relatively common in Scotland and northern England. In Scotland, it is found predominantly in areas such as Edinburgh, Glasgow, and the central belt. In England, concentrations of individuals bearing the surname can be found in Yorkshire, Lancashire, and the Midlands.
Notable Bearers
- Sir John Hays: A renowned British diplomat who served as ambassador to several countries.
- Emily Hays: A famous British actress known for her work on the stage and screen.
- Dr. Robert Hays: An esteemed British scientist who made significant contributions to his field.
Variants
Variants of the Hays surname include Hayes, Haighs, Haeys, and Hayse.
Pop Culture
The surname Hays has also made appearances in popular culture. It has been used in literature, films, and television shows, adding to its recognition and appeal.
In conclusion, the surname Hays has a rich history and has been carried by individuals who have made significant contributions to various fields. It continues to be a prominent surname in the United Kingdom and beyond.
There are approximately 1,139 people named Hays in the UK. That makes it roughly the 6,674th most common surname in Britain. Around 17 in a million people in Britain are named Hays.
Surname type: Location or geographical feature
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
- Brian
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Matthew
- Michael
- Peter
- Robert
- William
Female
- Angela
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Helen
- Irene
- Jennifer
- Joanne
- Karen
- Linda
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Mary
- Michelle
- Patricia
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.