WORLIDGE
Worlidge
Introduction
Worlidge is an English surname with a long history, having origins in the pre-7th century period. The name is locational, deriving from the Old English "worp" meaning "enclosure" or "settlement" and "leah" meaning "clearing". It is believed that families bearing this surname could have originated from any of the various places in England named Worlidge.
Origins and Distribution
The surname Worlidge is primarily found in the southern counties of England, particularly in Berkshire, Oxfordshire, and Wiltshire. Historical records indicate that the Worlidge family have been well-established in these regions for centuries.
Notable Individuals
- Thomas Worlidge (1700-1766): A well-known British artist and engraver, Thomas Worlidge was renowned for his work in the medium of mezzotint.
Variants
Variants of the surname Worlidge include Warlidge and Worledge, reflecting the phonetic diversity that often characterises old English spellings.
References
Those interested in tracing their Worlidge ancestry may find useful records in parish registers, censuses, and other historical documents available in local archives and genealogical databases.
There are approximately 60 people named Worlidge in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Worlidge.