WOODHEAD
Woodhead
Woodhead is an English surname of locational origin, deriving from several places in England called Woodhead. These places were typically named after a head or summit of a wood, reflecting the proximity to a wooded area. The earliest recorded instance of the Woodhead surname dates back to the 13th century in Yorkshire, England. Over time, the name has spread throughout the country and beyond, with notable concentrations in areas with historical ties to Yorkshire.
Distribution and Variation
The Woodhead surname has variations in spelling, including variants like Woodhed, Woodhede, Wooded, and Wooded. The distribution of the name is most prominent in England, especially in Yorkshire, Lancashire, and Derbyshire. However, descendants of the Woodhead family can also be found in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Notable Bearers
- Arthur Woodhead (1879-1965): A British surgeon known for his contributions to the field of cardiothoracic surgery.
- Peter Woodhead (b. 1954): A musician and songwriter who played a significant role in the British folk-rock scene of the 1970s.
- Alison Woodhead (b. 1982): An English author famous for her works in the genre of historical fiction.
Heraldic Symbolism
The coat of arms associated with the Woodhead surname typically features symbols of strength, protection, and loyalty. Common elements include a shield with a representation of a wooded landscape, often accompanied by motifs such as stags, trees, or a helmet denoting bravery.
In modern times, the Woodhead surname continues to be passed down through generations, maintaining its historical significance and connection to the British Isles.
There are approximately 6,504 people named Woodhead in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,459th most common surname in Britain. Around 100 in a million people in Britain are named Woodhead.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Stephen
Female
- Carol
- Elizabeth
- Helen
- Jennifer
- Joanne
- Karen
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Mary
- Sally
- Sarah
- Susan