WESTRAY
Westray
Westray is a prominent British surname that has its origins in the medieval times. The surname is of toponymic origin, derived from the place name "Westray" which refers to an island in the Orkney archipelago, situated off the northern coast of Scotland.
The name Westray is believed to have derived from the Old Norse words "vestr" (meaning west) and "øy" (meaning island), reflecting the geographical location of the island to the west of the Orkney mainland. Over time, individuals residing in or associated with Westray adopted the name as a surname to denote their connection to the island.
Individuals bearing the surname Westray can be found across different regions of the United Kingdom, with historical records showing variations in spelling, such as Westrey and Westery. The Westray surname has historical significance, with notable individuals bearing the name making contributions to various fields such as art, literature, business, and politics.
Today, the Westray surname continues to be passed down through generations, representing a lasting link to the ancestral roots and heritage associated with the island of Westray. The surname serves as a reminder of the historical ties that individuals and families have to specific locations in the British Isles, highlighting the diverse and rich tapestry of identities that make up British society.
There are approximately 239 people named Westray in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around four in a million people in Britain are named Westray.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alan
- Gary
- Ian
- James
- Jason
- John
- Julian
- Michael
- Nicholas
- Paul
- Richard
- Shaun
- Stephen
Female
- Claire
- Diane
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Jane
- Joanne
- Julie
- Lisa
- Pamela
- Susan