POFFLEY
Poffley
Poffley is an English surname with its origins in the county of Sussex. The name is believed to have derived from the Old English personal name "Poppa" combined with the suffix "-ley," which means a clearing in a wood or forest. This suggests that the original bearers of the surname may have lived near or worked in such a clearing.
History
The earliest documented instance of the Poffley surname can be traced back to the 16th century in the parish records of Sussex. Over the centuries, the name spread to other parts of England, but it remains relatively uncommon compared to more widespread surnames.
Notable individuals bearing the surname Poffley have made contributions in various fields, including academia, business, and the arts. The surname has a strong presence in local communities in Sussex and neighbouring counties.
Variants
Variants of the Poffley surname include Poffly, Pophley, and Poppley, reflecting the flexibility of the English language in adapting names over time and across regions.
Modern Day
In contemporary times, individuals with the surname Poffley can be found across the United Kingdom and in other parts of the world due to migration and globalisation. The name continues to be passed down through generations, maintaining a link to its historical roots in Sussex.
References
- Reaney, P.H., and Wilson, R.M. A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford University Press, 1991.
- Hanks, P., Coates, R., and McClure, P. The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland. Oxford University Press, 2016.
There are approximately 186 people named Poffley in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around three in a million people in Britain are named Poffley.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- David
- Graham
- Marc
- Mark
- Martin
- Richard
- Simon
- Stephen
- Steven
- Stuart
- Vincent
Female
- Charlotte
- Claire
- Emma
- Karen
- Katy
- Louise
- Melanie
- Paulette
- Pauline
- Rachel
- Susan