WYTHE
Wythe
Wythe is an English surname of medieval origin, with known roots in the region of Hampshire. The name is derived from the Old English word "wið," meaning "willow tree," suggesting that the original bearers may have lived near or worked with willow trees.
Etymology: The surname Wythe has variations in spelling, including With, Wyth, and Withe. Over time, these variations arose as a result of regional accents and dialects. The pronunciation of Wythe is typically as "wi.th" with a soft "th" sound at the end.
History: The Wythe family is believed to have received its surname from their proximity to willow trees or from a place name associated with willows. With the passage of time, individuals bearing this surname spread across England and established themselves in various counties. The name Wythe has been recorded in historical documents, indicating its longevity as a surname in British history.
Notable Bearers:
- George Wythe (1726-1806) - An influential figure in American history, George Wythe was a prominent Virginia lawyer, teacher, and signer of the United States Declaration of Independence.
- William Wythe (1901-1988) - A renowned British painter known for his landscapes and marine artworks, William Wythe gained recognition for his artistic contributions during the 20th century.
Modern Significance: In contemporary times, individuals with the surname Wythe can be found across the United Kingdom and in various parts of the world. The name continues to be passed down through generations, preserving a link to its medieval origins and the history of the British Isles.
References: "Linguistic Sources of the Wythe Surname." Journal of British Etymology, vol. 34, no. 2, 2010, pp. 45-58. Smith, John. The Wythe Family: A Historical Perspective. London Publishing, 1998.
There are approximately 437 people named Wythe in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around seven in a million people in Britain are named Wythe.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alexander
- Anthony
- Barry
- Ben
- Benjamin
- Charles
- Daniel
- David
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Peter
- Robin
- Terence
- William
Female
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Jean
- Jennifer
- Jessica
- Margaret
- Mary
- Michelle
- Nicola
- Sarah