WOODBURY
Woodbury
Woodbury is a surname of English origin, derived from a place name meaning "fortified settlement in the woods". The name is of topographical origin, denoting someone who lived by a bourne or stream in the woods. It is believed to have originated from various places called Woodbury in England, particularly in Devonshire.
The first recorded instance of the surname can be traced back to the 13th century in the form of John de Wodeburi in the Hundred Rolls of Devon. Over the centuries, the surname has been found in various records, indicating its widespread use across different regions of England.
Notable individuals bearing the surname Woodbury include:
- Levi Woodbury (1789–1851) – American politician and Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States.
- Barbara Woodbury – British author known for her works in historical fiction.
- Sir Arthur Woodbury – Prominent British industrialist and philanthropist during the 19th century.
The Woodbury surname has maintained its presence in British and American societies, with descendants of the name continuing to make significant contributions in various fields.
References:
- Reaney, P.H. and Wilson, R.M. (2008). A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford University Press.
- Hanks, P. and Hodges, F. (1988). A Dictionary of Surnames. Oxford University Press.
There are approximately 181 people named Woodbury in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around three in a million people in Britain are named Woodbury.
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
- Alan
- Andrew
- Antonie
- Arthur
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Stephen
- Thomas
Female
- Anna
- Bridget
- Christine
- Danielle
- Gemma
- Hilary
- Jillian
- Michelle
- Pamela
- Sally
- Sarah
- Susan
- Zoe