Surname Nowell - Meaning and Origin

Unearthing Cultural Roots: The Journey of the Nowell Surname Through iGENEA DNA Test

Public curiosity towards personal roots is ever-growing, and the data from my iGENEA DNA test fostered a deeper understanding of my heritage, specifically surrounding the Nowell surname. The outcomes unveiled a captivating narrative rooted in England's history and broader cultural movements, with unexpected links to Ireland, serving as a reminder of historical fluidity and interconnectedness.

I. Nowell

Nowell: What does the surname Nowell mean?

The last name Nowell is an English surname likely derived from the Old English word niuwele, which means "new hall". In the Middle Ages, people named Nowell could have been those who lived in a newly built hall or resided in an area near a new hall. It was also a compound name made from the words niu ("new") and wealle ("wall", "rampart" or "palisade"), meaning someone who lived near a new wall or rampart.

The surname can also be derived from a personal name, of which there were several different spelling variations, such as Neuville, Nevel, Nowille, Noville, Novell, Noveille and Novel. This supports the theory that the Nowell name emerged as an occupational surname, given to individuals with related jobs. Examples may include those working in the fabric trade, builders of the new walls, or landlords of newly built manor houses.

Today, individuals with the surname Nowell may have ancestors with a long and varied history in England, having moved from the original area near the New Hall. They would have left the area for various reasons, such as to make money or to find a better life elsewhere. It’s likely that many Nowells are also descended from immigrants who arrived in England a few centuries ago. Despite its long history, the Nowell surname is still pretty rare in England and abroad, making it an interesting and unique last name to have.

Nowell: Where does the name Nowell come from?

Nowell is an English surname with roots that can be traced back to early medieval England. It is most commonly found in the Midlands region, particularly in Staffordshire, Warwickshire and Worcestershire where many early records of the name were found. It can also be found in the North West, Yorkshire and Lancashire where the family spread as they developed a presence in the regions.

Nowell is found more widely throughout England today, with records showing it is most popular in the Midlands and North West, followed by the South East and London. The East of England and South West have comparatively fewer bearers of the surname.

Outside of England, Nowell is also found in Scotland, Wales, Canada, the United States, Australia and New Zealand, typically with much fewer records than those found inside England.

Nowell is not a horribly common name, but it has a strong presence in England, Scotland, Wales, Canada, the United States, Australia and New Zealand, so it certainly appears to have a healthy reach among the population.

Variations of the surname Nowell

Nowell is a relatively uncommon surname of English origin. Its variants and spellings include Nowel, Nowell, No(a)well, Nowill, Nowall, Nowyll, Now ohl, Noell and Newell.

Nowell is believed to be derived from the personal name “Nele,” which in turn is derived from the Given Name Neil. The original Gaelic form of the name is "Niall," which is composed of two elements: "eless" meaning "challenge" and "neid" meaning "vehement."

Nowel is another variant of the surname, although it is less common. The origin of this spelling is uncertain, though it is likely to be related to Nowell. Nowell is another variant spelling of the surname, and it is likely derived from Nowell.

Nowill and Nowall are also variants of the Nowell surname. The origin of this spelling is unknown. Nowyll is a variant form of the Nowell surname, and its origin is believed to stem from the personal name “Nel” or “Burnell.”

No(a)well is another variant of the Nowell surname. The origin of this spelling is uncertain, but it is likely derived from “Nele” or “Nathanial”. Noell and Newell are also variants of the Nowell surname. They are believed to be derived from the personal names “Nele” or “Noll”.

Famous people with the name Nowell

• Harry Nowell: British war artist
• Arnold Nowell: NFL wide receiver
• Jami Nowell: Basketball player
• Tony Nowell: Actor and Musician
• Bill Nowell: English Footballer
• Everett Nowell: Classical composer
• Kit Nowell: Jazz Singer
• Richard Nowell: Canadian Poet
• Emma Nowell: Australian gymnast
• Murray Nowell: British painter and engraver

Other surnames

NowelNowels