Huws

Huws is a Welsh surname that has its origins in the Welsh personal name "Huw," which is a variant of the name "Hugh." The surname is of patronymic origin, meaning that it was derived from the given name of an ancestor, often the father's name.

Etymology

The name "Huw" is derived from the Old German name "Hug" or "Hugo," which means "heart," "mind," or "spirit." The name has been Anglicised as "Hugh" in English.

Distribution

The surname Huws is primarily found in Wales and is one of the less common Welsh surnames. It is most prevalent in areas with a significant Welsh-speaking population, such as Gwynedd, Anglesey, and Ceredigion.

Notable Bearers

1. Iolo Huws: A Welsh poet and playwright known for his contributions to Welsh literature.

2. Guto Nyth Brân: Huws ap Dafydd Gwilym, also known as Guto Nyth Brân, was a legendary Welsh athlete from the 18th century.

Variants

Variants of the surname Huws include Hughes, Hughs, and Pugh, reflecting different Anglicised spellings and regional variations.

References

  • Reaney, P. H., & Wilson, R. M. (1997). A Dictionary of English Surnames.
  • Hanks, P., Coates, R., & McClure, P. (2016). The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland.

The surname Huws carries a rich history and is an integral part of the Welsh cultural heritage.

There are approximately 444 people named Huws in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around seven in a million people in Britain are named Huws.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alun
  • Arwel
  • Daniel
  • David
  • Dylan
  • Gwilym
  • Ioan
  • Iwan
  • John
  • Meirion
  • Owen
  • Rhodri
  • Rhys
  • Richard
  • Thomas

Female

  • Angharad
  • Catrin
  • Eirlys
  • Eleri
  • Elin
  • Elizabeth
  • Manon
  • Nia
  • Rachel
  • Sian

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