Layard

The surname Layard is of English origin, derived from the Old English terms "leah" meaning "clearing" and "weard" meaning "guard". The name is patronymic in nature, suggesting that the original bearer may have been the guardian or ward of a clearing.

The Layard family has a rich history, with notable individuals bearing this surname making significant contributions to various fields. One of the most renowned figures with the Layard surname is Sir Austen Henry Layard (1817–1894), a British archaeologist and politician. Sir Austen is best known for his excavation work at the ancient Assyrian city of Nineveh in Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq), which helped to uncover many ancient artefacts and provide valuable insights into the Assyrian civilization.

The Layard surname has continued to be passed down through generations, with individuals of this name maintaining a diverse range of professions and occupations. The name Layard, with its origins in England, has spread across the globe as part of the British diaspora, with individuals bearing this surname residing in various countries.

Today, the Layard surname carries with it a sense of heritage and legacy, reflecting the contributions of its bearers to British history and beyond.

There are approximately 35 people named Layard in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Layard.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • David

Female

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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