WILDE
Wilde
Definition
Wilde is a common British surname with historical roots dating back to the medieval period. The surname is of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English word "wilde," meaning untamed or wild. It is believed that the surname was originally bestowed upon an individual who displayed qualities of wildness or untamed nature.
History
The Wilde surname can be traced back to various regions across England, with notable concentrations in Yorkshire, Lancashire, and London. The earliest documented record of the Wilde surname dates back to the 13th century, during the reign of King Edward I. Over the centuries, the surname has spread to other parts of the United Kingdom and the world, carried by British emigrants.
Notable Individuals
The surname Wilde has been borne by several notable individuals throughout history. One of the most famous bearers of the name is the renowned Irish playwright and author, Oscar Wilde (1854-1900). Oscar Wilde is celebrated for his literary works, including "The Picture of Dorian Gray" and "The Importance of Being Earnest."
Another notable individual with the Wilde surname is Sir Alan Wilde (1911-1978), a distinguished British physicist and academic known for his contributions to the field of nuclear physics. Sir Alan Wilde made significant advancements in the understanding of nuclear reactions and particle accelerators.
In Popular Culture
The Wilde surname has also made appearances in popular culture, with fictional characters carrying the name in literature and entertainment. The surname's connotations of wildness and untamed nature have inspired writers and creators to use it symbolically in their works.
In conclusion, the Wilde surname holds a rich history in the British Isles, with diverse origins and notable bearers who have made significant contributions to various fields. Its longstanding presence in society reflects the legacy of individuals who have embodied both the untamed spirit and intellectual prowess associated with the name.
There are approximately 11,017 people named Wilde in the UK. That makes it the 837th most common surname in Britain. Around 169 in a million people in Britain are named Wilde.
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
- Andrew
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Stephen
Female
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Helen
- Jane
- Julie
- Linda
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.