Selway

Origin

Selway is a distinctive English surname with roots in the southwestern county of Somerset. It is derived from Old English elements, with "sel" meaning a "hall" or "manor" and "weg" referring to a "path" or "way". Therefore, the name possibly signifies someone who came from or lived near a manor or path.

Distribution and Frequency

The surname Selway is relatively uncommon, with the highest frequency found in the United Kingdom, particularly in the counties of Somerset and Devon. Outside of the UK, individuals with the surname can also be found in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, often as a result of migration patterns throughout history.

Notable Individuals

  • Clive Selway: An acclaimed British sculptor known for his intricate metalwork and sculptures that combine natural forms with abstract elements.

  • Sally Selway: A respected researcher in the field of marine biology, focusing on the conservation of seahorses and their habitats in the coastal regions of the UK.

  • Dr. Kenneth Selway: A prominent historian specialising in medieval British history, particularly the cultural impact of the Norman Conquest on local communities in the North of England.

Coat of Arms

Though variations exist, the Selway family crest typically features symbols like a silver shield embellished with a red chevron, often accompanied by accompanying motifs such as stars, keys, or heraldic charges that reflect the family's unique history and values.

Legacy

The surname Selway carries a legacy of individuals with diverse achievements in fields such as art, science, academia, and beyond. Family members have contributed significantly to the cultural and intellectual tapestry of the United Kingdom and beyond, leaving an indelible mark on the historical landscape of the regions where they have settled.

There are approximately 1,451 people named Selway in the UK. That makes it roughly the 5,486th most common surname in Britain. Around 22 in a million people in Britain are named Selway.

Surname type: Location or geographical feature

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
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Richard
  • Robert

Female

  • Ann
  • Dorothea
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Julie
  • Karen
  • Linda
  • Mary
  • Patricia
  • Rachel
  • Sarah
  • Susan
  • 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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