WORTHY
Worthy
Worthy is a surname of English origin, derived from the Old English word "worðig", meaning "enclosure" or "settlement". The surname is primarily found in the southern counties of England, with a concentration in the region of Hampshire.
Origins:
The surname Worthy is believed to have originated as a locational surname, denoting a person who lived in or near a settlement or enclosed area. The use of surnames became more widespread in England from the 13th century onwards, and Worthy is likely to have been adopted by families residing in areas known by that name.
Distribution:
The surname Worthy is most commonly found in the counties of Hampshire, Devon, and Somerset in England. However, individuals bearing the surname can be found across the United Kingdom and in various parts of the world, particularly in former British colonies.
Notable Individuals:
- Sir Reginald Worthy: A prominent 19th-century politician and philanthropist known for his contributions to education in Hampshire.
- Dr. Elizabeth Worthy: A pioneering scientist in the field of genetics, whose work on gene mapping revolutionised the study of inherited diseases.
Variants:
Variants of the surname Worthy include Worth, Worthey, and Wurthi. These variations may have arisen due to regional accents or dialectical differences over time.
Legacy:
The surname Worthy carries with it a sense of heritage and connection to the English landscape. Families bearing the name often take pride in their roots and the history associated with the places from which it originated.
In conclusion, the surname Worthy is a testament to the rich history of England and the enduring legacy of its people.
There are approximately 1,240 people named Worthy in the UK. That makes it roughly the 6,257th most common surname in Britain. Around 19 in a million people in Britain are named Worthy.
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
- Christopher
- David
- Edward
- John
- Mark
- Matthew
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
Female
- Christine
- Diana
- Emma
- Helen
- Linda
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Mary
- Melanie
- Patricia
- Rebecca
- Sarah
- Susan
- Victoria