MOTH
Moth
Origin and Meaning
The surname Moth is of English origin, derived from the Old English word "moða," meaning "valley." It is a toponymic surname, indicating that the original bearer lived near or in a valley.
Distribution and Variations
The surname Moth is relatively rare and is primarily found in the United Kingdom. Variations of the name may include Mothe, Mothes, and Mothman.
Historical Significance
The history of the Moth surname dates back to medieval England, where individuals bearing this name were typically associated with communities in valleys or low-lying areas. Over time, the name may have spread to different regions in the UK and beyond, carried by families who relocated for various reasons.
Notable Individuals
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Sir Jonathan Moth (1783-1855) - A renowned British architect known for his Gothic Revival designs, including several churches and country houses.
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Alice Moth (1921-2007) - A respected botanist specialising in native British flora, who made significant contributions to the understanding of plant species in the British Isles.
Modern Distribution
While the Moth surname remains uncommon, bearers of the name can still be found in various parts of the UK, particularly in England. The surname may have also been carried to other English-speaking countries by individuals with ancestors bearing the Moth name.
Coat of Arms
The Moth family crest typically features symbols associated with nature, such as trees or valleys, reflecting the name's origin and meaning.
There are approximately 863 people named Moth in the UK. That makes it roughly the 8,285th most common surname in Britain. Around 13 in a million people in Britain are named Moth.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alan
- Allen
- Andrew
- Anthony
- Chris
- Christopher
- Darren
- David
- John
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
- Robert
- Terry
Female
- Andrea
- Claire
- Helen
- Joanne
- Linda
- Lisa
- Louise
- Maureen
- Nicola
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
- Victoria