Waddy

Origin and Meaning

Waddy is a British surname of Anglo-Saxon origin. The name is derived from the Old English words "waed" meaning "ford," and "eg" meaning "island" or "dry ground in a marsh." Therefore, the surname likely originated as a toponymic name for someone who lived near or on a fordable river or stream.

Distribution

The surname Waddy has been predominantly found in southern England, with notable concentrations in counties such as Sussex, Surrey, and Kent. Over time, individuals bearing the surname have dispersed to other parts of the United Kingdom and the world.

Notable Bearers

  • Thomas Waddy (1804-1852): A British engraver and painter known for his meticulous engravings of landscapes and botanical subjects during the Victorian era.
  • Percy Waddy (1896-1974): An English cricketer who played as a wicketkeeper for several cricket clubs in the early 20th century.
  • Caroline Anne Waddy (b. 1953): A British historian and author, renowned for her research on medieval British history, particularly the Anglo-Saxon period.

Modern Significance

The surname Waddy, though not as common as some other British surnames, still exists today and is carried by individuals across various professions and walks of life. Many bearers of the name proudly trace their roots back to early British history, contributing to its enduring legacy.

There are approximately 181 people named Waddy in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around three in a million people in Britain are named Waddy.

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Christopher
  • Crispin
  • Daniel
  • David
  • George
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Patrick
  • Philip
  • Stephen

Female

  • Daphne
  • Elizabeth
  • Elyse
  • Emma
  • Fiona
  • Jean
  • Karen
  • Laura
  • Lesley
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Michelle
  • Samantha
  • Susan

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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