NOWELL
Nowell
Origin and Meaning Nowell is a surname of Anglo-Saxon origin that derives from the Old English word "nawel," meaning Christmas. The name was likely given to people born on Christmas Day or associated with the festive season in some way.
Distribution and Popularity The surname Nowell is most commonly found in the North of England, particularly in Yorkshire and Lancashire. It is also present in other parts of the UK and in regions with historical English migration, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Historical Significance The earliest recorded instances of the Nowell surname date back to medieval England. One notable figure with this surname is Lawrence Nowell, an English antiquarian and linguist who lived in the 16th century. He was known for his scholarly contributions to Old English and Northumbrian dialects.
Variants and Spelling Over time, variations of the surname Nowell have emerged, including Noel, Nowill, and Nowells. These variants may have different regional origins or be the result of phonetic changes in pronunciation.
Famous Bearers Several individuals with the surname Nowell have achieved prominence in various fields, including sports, literature, and politics. One notable modern figure is Jack Nowell, an English rugby player who has represented both the Exeter Chiefs and the England national team.
Coat of Arms The Nowell family crest typically features traditional heraldic symbols, such as lions, chevrons, and crosses, arranged in a unique design to represent the family's values and history.
Genealogy and Research For those interested in tracing their Nowell ancestry, resources such as historical records, genealogical websites, and archives can provide valuable insights into the family's lineage and heritage.
Conclusion The Nowell surname, with its origins in Old English and its association with Christmas, carries a rich history and diverse legacy that continues to be celebrated by individuals and families around the world.
There are approximately 1,931 people named Nowell in the UK. That makes it roughly the 4,340th most common surname in Britain. Around 30 in a million people in Britain are named Nowell.
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
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
- Roger
- Stephen
Female
- Amanda
- Christine
- Claire
- Clare
- Elizabeth
- Gillian
- Julie
- Karen
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Norma
- Sarah
- Susan
- Vivien
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.