Medley

Medley is an English surname of medieval origin, deriving from the Old French word "medlee" or "meslee," meaning a combination or mixture. The surname is thought to have originated as a nickname for someone who possessed a multifaceted or diverse character.

The Medley family name has been found predominantly in the southern regions of England, particularly in counties such as Berkshire, Oxfordshire, and Buckinghamshire. Early records suggest that the name was first recorded in the 13th century in these areas.

Members of the Medley family have been noted in various historical records, including parish registers, census documents, and local archives. Over time, the surname has spread to different parts of the United Kingdom and overseas through migration and globalisation.

Notable individuals bearing the surname Medley include British swimmer and Olympic medallist Anita Lonsbrough (née Medley) and the renowned American singer and songwriter Bill Medley of The Righteous Brothers.

The surname Medley continues to be passed down through generations, holding a place in the rich tapestry of British surnames and family histories.

There are approximately 1,736 people named Medley in the UK. That makes it roughly the 4,736th most common surname in Britain. Around 27 in a million people in Britain are named Medley.

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
  • John
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Philip
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Steven

Female

  • Anne
  • Barbara
  • Elizabeth
  • Frances
  • Helen
  • Hilary
  • Karen
  • Louise
  • Patricia
  • Petra
  • Sarah
  • Susan
  • Victoria

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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