Sylva

Sylva is a British surname of Latin origin, derived from the word "silva" which means forest or woods. The surname Sylva is believed to have been brought to Britain by the Romans during their occupation of the country.

History

The Sylva surname is relatively rare in Britain, with most occurrences found in the south of England. Records indicate that individuals bearing the surname Sylva have been present in Britain for several centuries, with mentions in historical documents dating back to the medieval period.

Notable Individuals

  • Isabella Sylva (1798–1865): A British botanist known for her extensive research on native British flora.
  • Robert Sylva (1905–1979): A British painter renowned for his landscape paintings depicting the enchanting beauty of forests.

Modern Usage

While the surname Sylva is not as common as other British surnames, it continues to be passed down through generations. Some modern bearers of the surname have taken an interest in genealogy, seeking to uncover their family's historical roots.

Variants

Variants of the Sylva surname can be found in different parts of the world, such as Silva in Portugal and Spain, as well as De Silva in Sri Lanka. These variants all stem from the original Latin word meaning forest.

In conclusion, the British surname Sylva is a name rich in history and with connections to nature and the environment. Its bearers have made notable contributions in various fields, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come.

There are approximately 90 people named Sylva in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Sylva.

Region of origin: Europe

Country of origin: France

Language of origin: French

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Gonzalo
  • John
  • Paul
  • Thames
  • Thomas

Female

  • Claudine
  • Danielle
  • Fiona
  • Karen
  • Roxanne

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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