TREVAIL
Trevail
Origin and Meaning:
Trevail is a Cornish surname of English origin, derived from the Cornish word "tre," meaning homestead or settlement, and the French word "vail," meaning valley. Therefore, the name "Trevail" likely refers to someone who lived in or near a valley settlement in Cornwall.
Historical Significance:
The surname Trevail has ancient roots in Cornwall, a region known for its mining, fishing, and agricultural industries. Individuals bearing the name Trevail may have been involved in these traditional occupations or may have lived in close-knit rural communities in Cornwall.
Distribution and Variants:
The surname Trevail is relatively rare and is primarily found in Cornwall and other parts of the United Kingdom. Variants of the name may include Trevale, Travail, and Trevall.
Notable Individuals:
- Henry Trevail (1844–1903): A prominent Cornish botanist and horticulturist known for his contributions to the study of Cornish flora and his efforts to protect the natural environment.
- John Trevail (b. 1955): A contemporary British artist known for his colourful and expressive paintings inspired by the landscapes of Cornwall.
In Popular Culture:
The surname Trevail may occasionally appear in works of fiction or historical narratives set in Cornwall, reflecting the region's distinctive culture and heritage.
References:
- Ancestry.com. "Trevail Family History." Ancestry, www.ancestry.co.uk/name-origin?surname=trevail. Accessed 21 Oct. 2021.
- Padel, OJ. A Popular Dictionary of Cornish Place-names. Alison Hodge, 2004.
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There are approximately 155 people named Trevail in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Trevail.