Pellew

The surname Pellew is of Cornish origin, derived from the Old English personal name "Pawle" or "Pawa", which means "little". The name has an ancient history, dating back to the early medieval period in Cornwall, England.

Historical Significance

The most notable bearer of the Pellew surname is Admiral Sir Edward Pellew, 1st Viscount Exmouth (1757–1833), a renowned British naval officer who served during the Napoleonic Wars. Known for his strategic brilliance and courageous leadership, Admiral Pellew was instrumental in several key naval victories, including the Battle of Algiers in 1816.

Distribution and Variants

The Pellew surname is relatively rare, with most occurrences concentrated in the United Kingdom, particularly in the county of Cornwall where the name has its roots. Variants of the name include Pellewe, Pelloe, and Pelow.

Contemporary Influence

While the Pellew surname may not be as prominent in modern times, its historical significance and association with Admiral Sir Edward Pellew continue to be of interest to genealogists, historians, and naval enthusiasts.

In conclusion, the Pellew surname holds a distinguished place in British naval history, symbolising courage, leadership, and maritime prowess.

There are approximately 96 people named Pellew in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Pellew.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Ian

Female

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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