Surname: Poe

Origin: The surname Poe is of English origin, derived from the Old English personal name "Pawa," meaning "peacock." It is believed to have been a nickname given to someone who was flamboyant or proud, much like the elegant peacock bird.

Distribution: The surname Poe is found mainly in the southern regions of England, particularly in Hampshire and Dorset. Over time, it has spread to other parts of the United Kingdom and beyond, notably in the United States and Canada.

Variations: Variants of the surname Poe include Powe, Pove, and Poo. These variations reflect the different phonetic spellings that have emerged over the centuries.

Famous Individuals:

  • Edgar Allan Poe: Though the American writer Edgar Allan Poe shares the same surname, he is not of direct British descent. However, he is arguably the most famous individual associated with the name Poe, known for his macabre and gothic literary works.
  • Simon Powe: A British musician and songwriter known for his contributions to the music industry, particularly in the alternative rock genre.
  • Sarah Poe: A British environmentalist and activist working towards conservation efforts and raising awareness about climate change.

Coat of Arms: The Poe family has a distinguished coat of arms, featuring symbols such as a peacock, which represents pride and beauty, and other heraldic elements that reflect the family's history and values.

Legacy: The surname Poe carries with it a legacy of individuality, creativity, and a touch of flamboyance. Those who bear the name today may take pride in their heritage and the uniqueness it represents in British history and culture.

There are approximately 73 people named Poe in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Poe.

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
  • Charles
  • Charlie
  • Christopher
  • Simon

Female

  • Chido
  • Diana
  • Emma
  • Pamela
  • Valerie

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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