Whichelow

Whichelow is a surname of English origin, believed to have derived from the Old English pre 7th Century personal name "Wic(g)e" meaning one who lived in or near a dairy farm or village, and the word "hlaw", which translates to hill. This demonstrates the close connection of the surname with the land and agricultural life in England.

The name has been traced back through the centuries to various regions across England, particularly in the counties of Essex and Cambridgeshire. Notable individuals bearing the surname Whichelow have been linked to agricultural and entrepreneurial backgrounds, emphasising the historical ties to rural life and community stewardship.

Over time, the spelling of the surname has evolved and variations such as “Witchell” and “Wicklow” have been documented in historical records, reflecting the fluidity of language and naming practices throughout the ages.

In modern times, the surname Whichelow continues to be a part of the rich tapestry of British surnames, embodying a connection to England’s agricultural heritage and a sense of place rooted in the countryside.

There are approximately 114 people named Whichelow in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Whichelow.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Nicky
  • Robert

Female

  • Lm

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