Wylie

Wylie is a surname of Scottish origin that is found primarily in Britain. The name is believed to have been derived from the Old English and Old Norse personal name Wiglaf, which combines the elements wig, meaning "war," and laef, meaning "heir" or "descendant." The name was likely brought to Britain by Norse settlers during the Viking Age.

The surname Wylie can be found throughout various regions of the United Kingdom, with concentrations in Scotland, Northern Ireland, and parts of England. Those bearing the surname may have variations in spelling, such as Wyley and Wyleigh.

Historically, individuals with the surname Wylie have been associated with a variety of occupations and professions, including farmers, merchants, and craftsmen. Over time, many families bearing the name have spread across the British Isles and beyond, with some descendants emigrating to other countries, such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Notable individuals with the surname Wylie include Andrew Wylie, a prominent literary agent known for representing many acclaimed authors, and George Wylie, a renowned Scottish sculptor known for his public art installations.

In modern times, the surname Wylie continues to be passed down through generations, maintaining its rich history and heritage within British families.

There are approximately 6,936 people named Wylie in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,361st most common surname in Britain. Around 107 in a million people in Britain are named Wylie.

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Scotland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alan
  • Andrew
  • David
  • Ian
  • James
  • John
  • Peter
  • Robert
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Angela
  • Anne
  • Catherine
  • Claire
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Helen
  • Jennifer
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Sarah
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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