Winfrey

Winfrey is a distinct British surname with a notable history. The origins of this surname can be traced back to medieval England, specifically to the Anglo-Saxon period. The surname Winfrey is derived from the Old English personal name "Wynn" which means "joy" or "delight", combined with "frith" which means "peace". Therefore, the surname Winfrey can be interpreted to mean "joyful peace".

Historically, the Winfrey family was believed to have been predominantly located in the southern regions of England, particularly in counties like Hampshire and Sussex. Over time, families bearing the Winfrey surname spread to various parts of the country, contributing to its presence in different regions of the United Kingdom.

The surname Winfrey has been referenced in various records and documents throughout British history. It has been found in parish registers, census data, and other archival sources, providing insights into the lives and occupations of individuals bearing this surname.

Notably, the most well-known contemporary figure with the surname Winfrey is the American television host and media mogul, Oprah Winfrey. While Oprah Winfrey is of American descent, her surname traces back to English origins, reflecting the historical journeys and migrations of people with the Winfrey name.

Today, the surname Winfrey continues to be present in the United Kingdom and beyond, carried by diverse individuals connected through a shared ancestral lineage. The surname Winfrey stands as a testament to the enduring connections between history, language, and the people who bear this distinctive British name.

There are approximately 64 people named Winfrey in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Winfrey.

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

  • Ben
  • Benedict
  • Brian
  • Paul
  • Richard

Female

  • Alexandra
  • Jane
  • Julia
  • Katherine
  • Sarah

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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