SAWNEY
Sawney
Origin: Sawney is a Scottish surname that dates back to medieval times. It is believed to have originated as a nickname for a cunning or shrewd individual, derived from the Old English word "sawan," meaning to see, which evolved into "sagax" in Latin.
Distribution: The surname Sawney is relatively rare, with most instances found in Scotland. It is particularly prevalent in areas with historical ties to the name, such as Ayrshire and Lanarkshire.
Notable People:
- Alexander "Sawney" Bean: A legendary figure dating back to the 15th or 16th century, Sawney Bean is said to have been the head of a cannibalistic clan that reportedly killed and ate over 1,000 people in caves along the Ayrshire and Galloway coasts. While the veracity of these claims is debatable, the tale of Sawney Bean has become a part of Scottish folklore.
Modern Significance: In modern times, the surname Sawney is a testament to the rich tapestry of Scottish history and folklore. While relatively uncommon, those who bear the name can trace their lineage to a bygone era of cunning and mystery.
Variants: Variants of the surname Sawney include Sounie, Sounes, Sone, and Sauney.
References:
- Reaney, P.H. and Wilson, R.M. A Dictionary of English Surnames. London: Routledge, 1991.
- The New Book of First Names. London: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc, 2006.
There are approximately 106 people named Sawney in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Sawney.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- John
- Ken
Female