NOSWORTHY
Nosworthy
Nosworthy is a surname of English origin that can be traced back to the county of Devon in South West England. The name is believed to be of locational origin, derived from the hamlet of Nosworthy in the parish of Cornwood.
Origins and Meaning
The surname Nosworthy dates back to medieval times, with the earliest known recording dating to the 16th century in the parish records of Devon. The name is derived from the Old English words "nōs" meaning nose and "wurð" meaning enclosure or homestead. Therefore, Nosworthy can be interpreted as nose-shaped homestead or place of the nose.
Distribution and Variations
The surname Nosworthy is relatively uncommon, with most bearers found in Devon and neighbouring counties in the South West of England. Variations of the surname include Nosworth, Noswrthy, and Nosworthie.
Notable Bearers
Historically, the Nosworthy surname has been associated with individuals in various occupations ranging from farmers to merchants. One of the most notable bearers of the name is John Nosworthy, a prominent merchant in the 18th century Devonshire. He was known for his contributions to local trade and philanthropy.
Legacy
The Nosworthy surname, though not widely recognised, holds a significant place in the coastal region of Devon and continues to be passed down through generations. Its origins in a specific locale provide a link to the history and heritage of the area.
In conclusion, the surname Nosworthy is a testament to the rich tapestry of English surnames and their connections to specific locations and occupations, preserving a slice of history within its syllables.
There are approximately 494 people named Nosworthy in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around eight in a million people in Britain are named Nosworthy.
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
- Adam
- Andrew
- David
- George
- John
- Jonathan
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Philip
- Richard
- Robert
Female
- Barbara
- Betty
- Claire
- Elaine
- Emma
- Gemma
- Ilka
- Julie
- Lisa
- Patricia
- Susan
- Zoe
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.