Illsley

Illsley is a surname of English origin, derived from the Old English personal name "Ylsey," meaning "clearing where the eels are caught." The surname is primarily found in the southern regions of England, particularly in counties such as Berkshire, Oxfordshire, and Somerset.

The earliest recorded instances of the Illsley surname date back to the late 16th century, with variations such as Ilsley and Ilsly also being documented in historical records. The Illsley name has been associated with various occupations, including farm labourers, craftsmen, and tradespeople.

Notable individuals bearing the Illsley surname include John Illsley, the bass guitarist of the renowned British rock band Dire Straits. Throughout history, the Illsley family has contributed to a wide array of industries and professions, leaving a legacy that continues to be researched and celebrated by genealogists and historians alike.

There are approximately 1,169 people named Illsley in the UK. That makes it roughly the 6,542nd most common surname in Britain. Around 18 in a million people in Britain are named Illsley.

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

  • Andrew
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Robert
  • Stephen
  • Stuart

Female

  • Ann
  • Barbara
  • Elizabeth
  • Florence
  • Frances
  • Karen
  • Laura
  • Linda
  • Margaret
  • Moyra
  • Rachel
  • Rebecca
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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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