Speake

Speake is an English surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, deriving from the Old English word "spǣc", meaning "speech" or "talk". The surname is believed to have originated as a nickname for someone who was a good orator, a spokesperson or simply someone who spoke their mind freely.

The Speake family name is primarily found in the southern counties of England, including Kent, Surrey, and Sussex. The earliest recorded instances of the surname date back to the 13th century, with variations such as Speak and Speke also being used.

Throughout history, individuals with the surname Speake have been involved in various professions, including law, politics, and the arts. Notable bearers of the Speake surname include John Speake, a prominent lawyer in the 17th century, and Emily Speake, a renowned theatre actress in the early 20th century.

The Speake surname has continued to be passed down through generations, with many descendants still residing in England and other parts of the world. The name is a reminder of the rich linguistic heritage of the British Isles and the importance of effective communication in society.

Overall, the Speake surname carries with it a legacy of eloquence, communication, and individuality, embodying the essence of its Old English roots.

There are approximately 1,093 people named Speake in the UK. That makes it roughly the 6,895th most common surname in Britain. Around 17 in a million people in Britain are named Speake.

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Wales

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Welsh

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Christopher
  • David
  • Graham
  • John
  • Mark
  • Matthew
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Richard

Female

  • Angela
  • Anne
  • Barbara
  • Carol
  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Karen
  • Margaret
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan
  • Victoria

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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