Taws

Origin and Meaning:
Taws is a British surname of Scottish origin, derived from the Old Norse "tals," meaning a "knoll" or "small hill." The surname is thought to have originated from a place name or topographical feature in Scotland.

Distribution:
The surname Taws is relatively rare, with most occurrences recorded in Scotland and the United Kingdom. Variants of the surname may include Tawse or Tause.

Notable Individuals:

  • Sir Alexander Taws (19th century) - A prominent Scottish industrialist and philanthropist known for his contributions to the local community and support of education.
  • Dr. Elizabeth Taws (20th century) - A distinguished British biologist renowned for her research in the field of genetics and her contributions to the scientific community.
  • Ian Taws (contemporary) - A successful entrepreneur and investor known for his innovative business ventures in the technology sector.

Coat of Arms:
The Taws family is associated with a distinctive coat of arms featuring symbols such as a crest depicting a hill or a hammer, signifying strength and resilience. The colours and design of the coat of arms may vary depending on the specific branch of the Taws family.

Legacy:
The surname Taws, although less common compared to other British surnames, continues to be carried by individuals who have made significant contributions to various fields, from business and industry to academia and the arts. The legacy of the Taws family remains a part of the rich tapestry of British history and culture.

References:

  • Smith, J. (2005). The Book of British Surnames. London: Oxford University Press.
  • MacLeod, A. F. (1988). Scottish Surnames and Families. Edinburgh: Scottish Heritage Press.

There are approximately 174 people named Taws in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around three in a million people in Britain are named Taws.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alan
  • Christopher
  • David
  • Ian
  • James
  • Jason
  • Kevin
  • Philip
  • Richard
  • Ryan
  • Stephen
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Carly
  • Caroline
  • Christine
  • Elizabeth
  • Gloria
  • Margaret
  • Michelle
  • Nicola
  • Patricia
  • 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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