PHILBEY
Philbey
Philbey is an English surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, believed to date back to the early medieval period. The name is derived from the Old English personal name Philippus, itself coming from the Greek name Philippos, meaning "lover of horses".
Origins
The surname Philbey is mainly found in the southern counties of England, particularly in areas such as Hampshire, Surrey, and Sussex. It is said that the Philbey family can trace its roots back to the ancient Anglo-Saxon era, with records of the name appearing in historical documents from as early as the 13th century.
Variants
Over the years, the spelling of the surname Philbey has evolved, leading to variant forms such as Philby, Philbye, Filby, and Phelby. These variations can often be attributed to changes in pronunciation, regional accents, or clerical errors in historical records.
Notable Individuals
Despite the relative rarity of the surname Philbey, there have been individuals who have made a mark in various fields. One of the most notable among them is British intelligence officer Harold Adrian Russell Philby, known as Kim Philby, who was a high-ranking MI6 officer and a double agent for the Soviet Union during the Cold War.
Modern Presence
Today, individuals with the surname Philbey can be found across different parts of the United Kingdom and in other English-speaking countries. While the name may not be as common as some other English surnames, it remains an important part of the country's diverse genealogical history.
In conclusion, the surname Philbey has a rich history that reflects the social, linguistic, and historical complexities of England. Its origins in the ancient Anglo-Saxon period, along with its variants and notable individuals associated with the name, contribute to the enduring legacy of the Philbey family.
There are approximately 205 people named Philbey in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around three in a million people in Britain are named Philbey.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alan
- Andrew
- Brian
- Daniel
- Darren
- David
- Paul
- Peter
- Robert
- Ronald
- Scott
- Shaun
- Stephen
- Terry
- Vic
Female
- Josephine
- Kelly
- Margaret
- Mary
- Melanie
- Natalie
- Nicola
- Patricia
- Samantha
- Susan