Quill

Origin and Meaning The surname Quill is of Old English origin, derived from the word quill, meaning a pen made from a bird's feather. The name likely originated as an occupational surname for someone who made or used quills for writing.

Distribution The surname Quill is most commonly found in the United Kingdom, with concentrations in regions such as Yorkshire, Lancashire, and London. The name has also spread to other English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Notable Individuals

  • Richard Quill (1776-1853): A renowned calligrapher and scribe, known for his intricate and artistic writing using quills.
  • Julia Quill (b. 1964): A prominent British novelist, whose works often explore themes of literature and history.

Trivia

  • The Quill family crest features a feather quill symbolising intellect and creativity.

Variants Variants of the surname Quill include Quille, Quel, and Quell.

The Quill surname is a testament to the historical significance of writing instruments and the art of calligraphy in British culture.

There are approximately 362 people named Quill in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around six in a million people in Britain are named Quill.

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Ireland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Anthony
  • Christopher
  • Daniel
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Patrick
  • Richard
  • Simon
  • Thomas

Female

  • Amanda
  • Carole
  • Elaine
  • Elizabeth
  • Evelyn
  • Helen
  • Janet
  • Joanne
  • Kerry
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Susan
  • Tracy

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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