SYLVAN
Sylvan
The surname Sylvan has roots in Anglo-Saxon England dating back to the medieval period. It is derived from the Old French word 'sylvain', meaning 'woodland' or 'forest'. The name was likely used to describe someone who lived near or worked in a wooded area.
Over time, variations of the surname Sylvan have emerged, including Sylvane, Silvan, and Silvane. The name is more commonly found in regions with strong Norman influence due to the connection to Old French.
Individuals bearing the surname Sylvan can be found throughout British history, with records of families holding this name in various counties. The name has also spread to other English-speaking countries through migration and settlement.
Today, the surname Sylvan continues to be held by diverse individuals across the United Kingdom and beyond, each carrying with them a piece of its historical significance tied to the woodlands of medieval England.
There are approximately 121 people named Sylvan in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Sylvan.