Povey

Povey is a British surname of Old French origin. The name can be traced back to the pre-7th century Norman period, derived from the Old French personal name "Povée", meaning little or small, which was a term of endearment. The surname Povey has seen several variations over the centuries, including Pove, Pové, Povee, and Pouve.

The distribution of the Povey surname is most prominent in the Staffordshire and Cheshire regions of England, with smaller concentrations in other areas across the country. The name has also been recorded in Wales and the United States, reflecting the historical migration patterns of the British population.

Notable individuals with the surname Povey include Richard Povey, a 17th-century English politician and Thomas Povey, an influential member of the English Parliament during the Commonwealth period. The Povey name has also been associated with various professions and industries, including law, academia, and business.

Throughout history, individuals with the surname Povey have contributed to the cultural, political, and economic landscape of Britain. The name continues to be passed down through generations, preserving a rich heritage and familial legacy.

There are approximately 4,942 people named Povey in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,909th most common surname in Britain. Around 76 in a million people in Britain are named Povey.

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
  • Christopher
  • David
  • Ian
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Helen
  • Jean
  • Karen
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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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