MOTTLEY
Mottley
Etymology
The surname Mottley is of Old English origin, derived from the personal name Modig, meaning 'brave' or 'valiant', combined with the suffix '-ley', indicating a clearing or meadow. The name dates back to the early medieval period in England and is considered to be of occupational origin.
Distribution
The surname Mottley is predominantly found in the United Kingdom, with a concentration in the southern regions, particularly in counties such as Surrey and Kent. However, Mottley families can also be traced to former British colonies, such as the United States and Australia, due to historical migration patterns.
Notable Individuals
1. Sir James Mottley (1774–1853)
- A British politician and barrister, Sir James Mottley served as a Member of Parliament for various constituencies during the early 19th century. He was known for his contributions to legal reform and was appointed as a judge later in his career.
2. Sophia Mottley (1893–1977)
- Sophia Mottley was a renowned British artist known for her landscape paintings, particularly depicting the scenic beauty of the English countryside. Her work has been exhibited in prestigious galleries across the UK.
Legacy
The surname Mottley continues to be borne by numerous individuals across the globe, representing a rich historical connection to English heritage and culture. Through notable figures like Sir James Mottley and Sophia Mottley, the name has left a lasting impact in the realms of politics, law, and the arts.
References
"Ancestry.com - Mottley Family History." Ancestry, www.ancestry.co.uk/name-origin?surname=mottley.
Smith, J. & Johnson, R. (Eds.). (2005). The Dictionary of British Surnames. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
There are approximately 189 people named Mottley in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around three in a million people in Britain are named Mottley.
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
- Alan
- David
- Edward
- Gareth
- Jason
- John
- Karl
- Matthew
- Paul
- Peter
- Pg
- Phil
- Richard
- Stephen
Female
- Ada
- Christine
- Emma
- Freda
- Jennifer
- Karina
- Margaret
- Marie
- Michelle
- Norma
- Pamela
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Sharon