WAUGH
Waugh
Waugh is a surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English pre-7th Century word "weard," which means a watchman or guard. The name was often given to someone who was responsible for protecting a particular place. Waugh is a relatively common surname in Britain, particularly in the northern regions of England and Scotland.
History
The Waugh surname has ancient origins in the British Isles, and its presence can be traced back to medieval records. The name has evolved over time, with variations such as Waughe, Woff, and Wage appearing in historical documents.
Notable People
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Evelyn Waugh (1903-1966): Perhaps the most famous bearer of the Waugh surname is the British author Evelyn Waugh. Renowned for his satirical novels such as "Brideshead Revisited" and "Scoop," Evelyn Waugh is considered one of the leading literary figures of the 20th century.
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Alec Waugh (1898-1981): Alec Waugh was also a successful author, known for his novels and travel writing. He was the elder brother of Evelyn Waugh, and both siblings made significant contributions to British literature.
Distribution
The surname Waugh is predominantly found in the northern regions of England, particularly in counties like Northumberland, Yorkshire, and Lancashire. It is also relatively common in Scotland, especially the Scottish Borders region.
Variants
Variants of the Waugh surname include Waughe, Woff, and Wage. These variations reflect the diverse spellings that have been recorded throughout history.
Coat of Arms
The Waugh Coat of Arms features a shield with various symbols representing protection and guardianship. The crest often includes elements such as a watchtower or a sentinel, reflecting the original meaning of the name.
In conclusion, the surname Waugh has a rich history in the British Isles, with notable figures like Evelyn Waugh contributing to its legacy. The name continues to be passed down through generations, connecting individuals to their ancestral roots in England and Scotland.
There are approximately 7,649 people named Waugh in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,231st most common surname in Britain. Around 117 in a million people in Britain are named Waugh.
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
- Alan
- Andrew
- David
- James
- John
- Michael
- Peter
- Robert
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Helen
- Jean
- Jennifer
- Linda
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Sharon
- Susan