Sheild

Background

Sheild is a surname of English origin, derived from the Old English word "scyld," which means shield or protection. The name is an occupational surname, likely given to someone who made or carried shields for soldiers. The first recorded instance of the Sheild surname dates back to the medieval period in England.

Distribution

The Sheild surname is rare, with most occurrences found in the United Kingdom. The distribution of the name is more concentrated in certain regions, especially in England, where the name has historical roots.

Notable Individuals

  • John Sheild (1753-1843): A notable British composer and musician known for his contributions to classical music. He was active in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
  • Dr. Elizabeth Sheild (b. 1960): An acclaimed British scientist and researcher in the field of biotechnology. Dr. Sheild has made significant advancements in genetic engineering.

Variants

Over time, variations of the Sheild surname have emerged, including Shield and Shiel. These variations may have evolved due to factors such as regional accents and dialects.

Coat of Arms

The Sheild family may have a unique coat of arms, typically granted to individuals of noble or knightly heritage. The coat of arms often features symbols related to protection and strength, reflecting the meaning of the surname.

Legacy

Though the Sheild surname is not as widespread as some other English surnames, individuals bearing this name have made notable contributions to various fields, leaving a lasting legacy in British history and society.

There are approximately 41 people named Sheild in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Sheild.

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

  • Alexandros
  • Cameron
  • Geoffrey
  • John

Female

  • Rosalind

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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