SOLWAY
Solway
Surname: Solway
Origin: English and Scottish
Meaning: The surname Solway is of English and Scottish origin. It is derived from the place name 'Solway Firth' which is located between northwest England and southwest Scotland. The word 'Solway' is thought to have Celtic roots, possibly meaning 'sunny water' or 'muddy river'.
History: The surname Solway has been recorded in both England and Scotland since medieval times. Those living in close proximity to the Solway Firth may have adopted the name as a locational surname to identify themselves with the specific area. Over time, the surname has spread throughout the British Isles and beyond, often through migration and immigration.
Variants: Variants of the surname Solway may include Solwei, Solwey, or Solwei.
Notable Individuals:
- John Solway (1910-1985): A notable British historian known for his research on medieval English and Scottish history, particularly focusing on the Solway region.
- Alice Solway (b. 1976): An accomplished British artist whose works have been exhibited in galleries across the UK and Europe.
References:
- Reaney, P.H., & Wilson, R.M. (2008). A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford University Press.
- Hanks, P., Coates, R., & McClure, P. (2016). The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland. Oxford University Press.
There are approximately 428 people named Solway in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around seven in a million people in Britain are named Solway.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Colin
- David
- Graham
- Ian
- Joel
- John
- Mark
- Martin
- Paul
- Peter
- Robert
- William
Female
- Angela
- Elizabeth
- Joan
- Kirsty
- Maria
- Michelle
- Nicola
- Patricia
- Phillippa
- Rebecca
- Sheree