Smailes

Origin: The surname Smailes is derived from the Old Norse personal name Smeli, which means "hook" or "noose". It is a habitation surname, typically given to people who lived near a place called Smail, Smales, or Smale. The surname Smailes is most common in the northern counties of England, particularly in Yorkshire.

History: The Smailes family has a long history, with records dating back to the 14th century in Yorkshire. They were primarily agricultural workers and landowners in the area, contributing to the local economy and community. Over the years, branches of the Smailes family have spread to other parts of the UK and overseas, establishing themselves in various professions and industries.

Notable Individuals:

  • David Smailes (1923-2010): A British chemist known for his research in organic chemistry and his contributions to the field of polymer science.

  • Leslie Smailes (1902-1966): An English football administrator who played a key role in the formation of the English Football League and the modern structure of English football.

  • Helen Smailes (b. 1985): A contemporary British artist known for her unique style of abstract painting and mixed media works.

Variants: Variants of the surname Smailes include Smale, Smail, Smiles, and Smiley.

Coat of Arms: The Smailes family coat of arms consists of a shield with symbols representing strength, integrity, and loyalty. The crest typically features a demi-lion holding a noose, symbolising the origin of the name.

Legacy: The Smailes surname continues to be held with pride by descendants of the family, who carry on its heritage through their achievements and contributions to various fields. The name Smailes serves as a reminder of the family's deep roots in British history and culture, as well as their ongoing presence in the modern world.

There are approximately 966 people named Smailes in the UK. That makes it roughly the 7,560th most common surname in Britain. Around 15 in a million people in Britain are named Smailes.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Brian
  • Chris
  • Christopher
  • David
  • Duncan
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Amanda
  • Caroline
  • Edna
  • Emma
  • Helen
  • Jane
  • Julie
  • Margaret
  • Nicola
  • Pamela
  • Sarah

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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