UYS

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Uys

Origin: Uys is a surname of Dutch origin, primarily found in South Africa.

Meaning: The surname Uys is believed to be a variant of the Dutch surname Wys, derived from the Middle Dutch word "wise," meaning "wise" or "knowing."

Distribution: The surname Uys is most commonly found in South Africa, particularly among the Afrikaner population. It is also present among the Dutch diaspora.

Notable Individuals:

  • Gert Uys: Notable South African cricketer who represented South Africa in the 1992 Cricket World Cup.
  • Piet Uys: A historical figure in South African history, renowned for his leadership during the Great Trek.

Variants: Variants of the surname Uys include Uyse and Uijssen.

References:

  • Hanks, P., Coates, R., & McClure, P. (2016). The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland. Oxford University Press.
  • South African History Online. (2021). Piet Uys. https://www.sahistory.org.za/people/piet-uys

There are approximately 153 people named Uys in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Uys.

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