WHITFELD
Whitfeld
Whitfeld is a surname with English origins, predominantly found in the United Kingdom. The name is believed to be locational, derived from the Olde English pre-7th Century word "hwit", meaning white, and "feld", which translates to open land or a pasture. Whitfeld is thus thought to refer to a place where white soil or white flowers were prevalent.
The first recorded instance of the surname Whitfeld dates back to the early 13th century, where it is found in the Hundred Rolls of Huntingdonshire in 1273. Over the centuries, the name has evolved in various spellings, including Whitfield and Whitelaw, reflecting regional dialects and phonetic changes.
Individuals bearing the Whitfeld surname have made notable contributions in various fields, including academia, politics, and the arts. The name has been linked to families of noble lineage as well as those engaged in agricultural pursuits.
Today, individuals with the surname Whitfeld can be found across the British Isles and in countries with historical connections to the United Kingdom. As with many family names, the significance and legacy of the Whitfeld surname continue to be passed down through generations, contributing to the rich tapestry of British heritage.
There are approximately 84 people named Whitfeld in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Whitfeld.
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.