SHAWL
Shawl
Shawl is an English surname of Scottish and northern English origin. The name is derived from the Old English word "sceal" or "schal," meaning "a small piece of cloth." This suggests that the surname may have originally been occupational, referring to someone who made or sold shawls, a garment that was traditionally worn as a wrap or cover.
Origins
The surname Shawl is believed to have originated in the Scottish borders or northern England, particularly in regions where the textile industry was prominent during medieval times. As such, the name may have been given to individuals involved in the production or trade of shawls, which were popular items of clothing in Britain and other parts of Europe.
Variants
Variants of the surname Shawl include Shawell, Schall, Shaul, and Shale. Over the centuries, variations in spelling and pronunciation have emerged, influenced by regional accents and dialects.
Notable Individuals
1. Mary Shawl (1805–1878)
- Mary Shawl was a prominent textile merchant in Manchester during the Industrial Revolution. She revolutionised the production of shawls in northern England, introducing new weaving techniques that led to increased efficiency and quality.
2. James Shawl (1923–1999)
- James Shawl was a renowned Scottish fashion designer known for his innovative designs of contemporary shawls and scarves. His creations were featured in leading fashion shows in London, Paris, and New York.
Distribution
The surname Shawl is relatively uncommon, with most bearers of the name found in the north of England and Scotland. The migration of Shawl families to other parts of the British Isles and overseas territories has contributed to its spread beyond its original regions of concentration.
In conclusion, the surname Shawl has a rich history rooted in the textile industry of Scotland and northern England. Its associations with the production and trade of shawls reflect the occupational origins of many family names. Today, individuals bearing the surname Shawl continue to honour this heritage through various endeavours, keeping the legacy of their ancestors alive.
There are approximately 67 people named Shawl in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Shawl.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Ian
- Ishak
- Nazir
- Sajaad
- Sajjad
Female
- Maureen
Similar and related surnames
- Chaal
- Chahl
- Chail
- Chal
- Chale
- Chall
- Chaul
- Cheal
- Cheale
- Cheall
- Schaal
- Schales
- Schall
- Schalow
- Schaul
- Schill
- Schille
- Shaal
- Shail
- Shaile
- Shaill
- Shails
- Shal
- Shala
- Shale
- Shales
- Shaley
- Shali
- Shall
- Shalla
- Shalley
- Shalli
- Shallie
- Shallo
- Shalloe
- Shalloo
- Shallow
- Shally
- Shalo
- Shaloe
- Shalu
- Shalz
- Shaul
- Shaw
- Shawa
- Shayle
- Sheail
- Sheal
- Sheale
- Shealey
- Sheally
- Sheals
- Shealy
- Sheel
- Sheell
- Sheels
- Sheil
- Sheila
- Shel
- Shela
- Shelah
- Sheli
- Shell
- Shelle
- Shels
- Shieal
- Shiel
- Shiell
- Shil
- Shill
- Shills
- Sholl
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.