WORBOYS
Worboys
Origin of the Name: Worboys is a British surname of Anglo-Saxon origin derived from the pre-medieval personal name "Wigmund," which means "war protector."
Historical Significance: The surname Worboys is believed to have originated in the South East of England, particularly in areas such as Essex and Kent. It has been documented in various records dating back to the Middle Ages, indicating a long history of use by families in the region.
Variations and Spelling: Over the centuries, the surname Worboys has evolved in different forms and spellings, including Warboys, Worbois, and Worbys. These variations reflect the phonetic changes that often occurred in the recording of names in historical documents.
Distribution and Popularity: The Worboys surname has been scattered across the United Kingdom, with concentrations in the original regions of Essex and Kent. While not as common as some other surnames, Worboys has retained a presence in British society and can be found in various records and family histories.
Famous Bearers:
- John Worboys: A notorious English serial rapist, known as the "Black Cab Rapist," who was convicted in 2009.
- Sir William Worboys: A fictional character in British literature, often depicted as a noble knight in medieval stories.
Legacy: The Worboys surname, though not as widespread as some others, holds a place in British genealogy and history. Families bearing this name can trace their roots back to the Anglo-Saxon period, adding to the rich tapestry of British surnames and identities.
There are approximately 1,034 people named Worboys in the UK. That makes it roughly the 7,179th most common surname in Britain. Around 16 in a million people in Britain are named Worboys.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Brian
- Christopher
- Colin
- David
- Graham
- John
- Martin
- Michael
- Peter
- Robert
- Russell
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Anne
- Annette
- Catherine
- Helen
- Joanne
- Julie
- Karen
- Margaret
- Rebecca
- Sarah
- Susan