WOOD
Wood
Introduction: Wood is a common surname of English origin that is derived from the Old English word "wudu," which means forest or woodland. The surname Wood is found predominantly in the United Kingdom, particularly in England.
Origin: The surname Wood is believed to have originated as a topographic name for someone who lived near or in a wood or forest. In medieval England, forests played a significant role in daily life, providing resources for shelter, fuel, and hunting. As a result, the name Wood likely denoted a person who lived in close proximity to a wooded area.
Variations: Variations of the surname Wood include Woods, Wode, Woode, and Woud.
Distribution: The surname Wood is widespread across the United Kingdom, with a higher concentration in areas such as Yorkshire, Lancashire, and Kent. Over time, migration and population movements have led to the dispersal of individuals with the surname Wood to other regions within the UK and beyond.
Notable Individuals:
- Natalie Wood (1938-1981): American actress known for her roles in films such as "Rebel Without a Cause" and "West Side Story."
- Tom Wood (b. 1986): English rugby union player who has represented England at the international level.
- Victoria Wood (1953-2016): English comedian, actress, and writer known for her contributions to British television and comedy.
Legacy: The surname Wood carries a legacy of connection to nature and the landscape, reflecting the historical significance of woodlands in English culture. Many individuals with the surname Wood have continued to uphold this legacy through their contributions to various fields, ranging from the arts to sports and beyond.
References:
- Cottle, B. (1983). The Penguin Dictionary of Surnames. Penguin Books.
- Hanks, P., Coates, R., & McClure, P. (2016). The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland. Oxford University Press.
There are approximately 148,262 people named Wood in the UK. That makes it the 24th most common surname in Britain. Around 2,277 in a million people in Britain are named Wood.
Surname type: Location or geographical feature
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
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Robert
- Stephen
Female
- Christine
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Helen
- Julie
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- 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.