Winslow

Winslow is a prominent English surname with historical roots dating back to the medieval period. The name is of locational origin, derived from the Old English words "Wins" meaning "friend" and "hlaw" meaning "hill". This suggests that the name likely originated as a place name to denote someone living by a friend's hill or a friendly hill.

The surname Winslow is particularly associated with the counties of Buckinghamshire and Bedfordshire in England. The early recorded instances of the name date back to the Domesday Book of 1086 where it appears as Wingeslai, indicating the Norman influence on the name.

The Winslow family played significant roles in English history. One of the most notable figures associated with the surname is Edward Winslow (1595-1655), a Pilgrim leader who arrived at Plymouth, Massachusetts on the Mayflower in 1620. He was one of the signatories of the Mayflower Compact and served as the governor of Plymouth Colony in 1633, 1636, and 1644.

Over the centuries, the Winslow surname has spread beyond the boundaries of the British Isles, with notable bearers of the name establishing themselves in various parts of the world. Today, the name Winslow continues to be proudly borne by individuals across the globe, highlighting its enduring legacy and significance within British genealogy.

In conclusion, the surname Winslow holds a rich history and heritage, reflecting the enduring connection of individuals to their ancestral roots. Its associations with friendship and hills further add layers of meaning and depth to this distinguished English surname.

There are approximately 830 people named Winslow in the UK. That makes it roughly the 8,532nd most common surname in Britain. Around 13 in a million people in Britain are named Winslow.

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

  • David
  • John
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Philip
  • Robert
  • Simon
  • Stephen
  • William

Female

  • Donna
  • Helen
  • Jacqueline
  • Jane
  • Karen
  • Lesley
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Michelle
  • Patricia
  • Rebecca
  • Sarah
  • Susan
  • Teri

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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