Humphreys

Humphreys is a British surname that originated from the Welsh personal name "Hywel," which means 'eminent' or 'illustrious.' The name has evolved over time into various forms, including Humphrey, Humphries, and Humpreys.

The earliest recorded instances of the Humphreys surname date back to the medieval period in Wales and England. The name was associated with noble families and landowners, indicating a certain degree of status and prestige.

Humphreys is a patronymic surname, meaning that it is derived from the given name of an ancestor, typically the father. This naming convention was common in Wales and has contributed to the proliferation of surnames like Humphreys.

Over the centuries, the Humphreys surname has spread beyond Wales and is now found throughout the United Kingdom and in various parts of the world, particularly in former British colonies.

Notable individuals bearing the surname Humphreys include politicians, artists, academics, and other prominent figures. The name continues to be passed down through generations, preserving a connection to its Welsh origins and the heritage of those who bear it.

There are approximately 81 people named Humpreys in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Humpreys.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Barry
  • David
  • John
  • Mark
  • Martin
  • Paul
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Betty
  • Dawn
  • Elizabeth
  • Joan
  • Julie
  • Kathleen
  • Lilian
  • Margaret
  • Melanie
  • Sarah

Similar and related surnames

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

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