WOOLFE
Woolfe
Origin and Meaning: Woolfe is a British surname of Anglo-Saxon origin. It derives from the Old English word "wulf," meaning wolf. The name may have been used to describe someone who displayed characteristics associated with wolves, such as bravery or cunning.
Historical Significance: The surname Woolfe has a long history in England, with records dating back to the medieval period. It is believed that the name was initially used as a nickname before evolving into a hereditary surname.
Distribution and Variants: The surname Woolfe is most commonly found in England, particularly in regions with strong Anglo-Saxon influence. Variants of the name may include Wolfe, Wolf, Wulff, and Woolf.
Notable Individuals:
- Thomas Woolfe (1589–1671) – An English clergyman and writer known for his religious works.
- Virginia Woolf (1882–1941) – A renowned British writer and member of the Bloomsbury Group.
- Hugh Woolf (b. 1975) – A British actor known for his performances in theatre and television.
Coat of Arms: The Woolfe family is associated with a coat of arms that typically features symbols such as wolves, shields, and other heraldic elements. These symbols may vary depending on the specific branch of the family.
Modern Usage: Today, the surname Woolfe is still in use in the United Kingdom and has spread to other parts of the world through migration and immigration. It continues to be a part of British heritage and genealogy.
References:
- Reaney, P. H., & Wilson, R. M. (1997). A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford University Press.
- Cottle, B. (1984). The Penguin Dictionary of Surnames. Penguin Books.
There are approximately 411 people named Woolfe in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around six in a million people in Britain are named Woolfe.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Damian
- David
- Gary
- Joseph
- Kevin
- Malcolm
- Martin
- Melvin
- Michael
- Mickey
- Raymond
- Robert
- Steven
- Terence
Female
- Clare
- Dawn
- Diana
- Gemma
- Helen
- Joanne
- Linda
- Patricia
- Susan
- Victoria