Surname Willoughby - Meaning and Origin
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Mapping my genetic journey: An in-depth exploration of the Willoughby lineage through iGENEA DNA testing
Exploring the deep layers of my genetic lineage was a revelatory experience through iGENEA’s comprehensive DNA test. Providing an in-depth analysis of my ancestral composition, I discovered historical connections, potential noble lineages, and fascinating insights into the ‘Willoughby’ surname.
Z. Willoughby
read moreWilloughby: What does the surname Willoughby mean?
The last name Willoughby is of English origin, and is derived from the Old English words “wilig” (willow) and “burh” (manor or fortified dwelling). Specifically, the surname is believed to have originated from a location in Lincolnshire, England, known as Willoughby by Alford.
The surname Willoughby has also come to be associated with characteristics of patriarchal authority and determination in the face of adversity. Those bearing the name Willoughby have often been seen to display attributes of resilience, strength of character, and perhaps even an inclination for stubbornness.
The surname Willoughby can be found in all corners of the world today, from the United Kingdom to the United States, and perhaps even further abroad. What’s more, countless renowned figures have borne the name, dating all the way back to medieval times.
At its core, the surname Willoughby personifies a strong will, an inner strength and perseverance, and a deeply rooted sense of home and belonging. Even today, those fortunate enough to carry the name may find themselves unexpectedly inspired to take on new challenges and embrace new paths.
Order DNA origin analysisWilloughby: Where does the name Willoughby come from?
The last name Willoughby is most commonly found in the United States and Canada. It is believed to have originated from the Norman-French family of Willoughby, who settled in England in the 11th century. The name is derived from the geographical location of the family's ancestral home, near modern-day Willoughby, Lincolnshire.
Today, Willoughby is most commonly associated with the United States. According to a 2020 census, the surname is most common in the states of Ohio, North Carolina, Indiana, Florida, New Jersey, and Texas. California, New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia are among the top 10 states where people bearing the last name of Willoughby can be found.
In Canada, the name is most commonly found in the provinces of Quebec, Ontario, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Alberta, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Manitoba, and Prince Edward Island.
The surname is also found in other parts of the world like Australia, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. Additionally, there are reportedly people bearing the name Willoughby living in parts of Asia, South America, and the Middle East.
Overall, the name Willoughby is still common today in many different countries and regions. It is definitely less concentrated in certain areas, but with its rich history, this last name still stands strong and is widely found in many parts of the world.
Variations of the surname Willoughby
The variants, spellings and surnames of the same origin for the surname Willoughby are Wilbore, Wilbur, Wilburr, Wilburs, Wilburt, Wilburn, Wilburne, Wilby,Wilbye, Willeby, Willey, Willeys, Willby, Willbys, Willeby, Willeys, Williar, Williard, Williber, Willibys, Willigby, Willoby, Wills, Wilshusen, Willson, and Wilsman.
The earliest known recording of the origin of the surname Willoughby is from the 1086 Domesday Book of England and it is derived from the Old Norse personal name Viligar, Viliga, and Wiliga. Viligar is a combination of two elements: Vili meaning "dear, willing" and Gari meaning a "spearman".
The name is recorded as Wiluerby in the 1204 rolls, and as Willeby in 1221.
The surname has a wide variety of spellings and variants, as many of the old Germanic languages changed and evolved with time. The original spelling of the surname was likely "Willouby" as "Willou" was an old Norman-French family name, and the "by" suffix was added often to signify a place of origin.
As the name spread across the English realm, due to various regional dialects, the spelling changed, and other variants such as "Wilbury", "Wilburye" and "Williby" became popular.
The surname has also spread to other parts of Europe, such as Germany, where it is spelled "Wilshusen" or "Wilsman", and to Ireland, where it is spelled "Wilby", and of course to the United States, where it has also become very popular.
Famous people with the name Willoughby
- Hannah Willoughby: professional American volleyball player
- Holly Willoughby: English television presenter
- Anna Willoughby: Entrepreneur and Founder of ADORE Cosmetics
- Oli Willoughby: Professional soccer player and coach
- Darren Willoughby: Actor, Producer, and Voice actor
- Bernadette Willoughby: Women’s Rights Activist and feminist lecturer
- Jason Willoughby: Film Director and Producer
- Mark Willoughby: Mixed Martial Artist
- Jane Willoughby: Investment Banker and Financial Educator
- John Willoughby: founder and CEO of Willoughby Enterprises
- David Willoughby: former NFL fullback and US Army veteran
- Michael Willoughby: British film and television composer
- Ian Willoughby: Rock and Jazz musician
- Nathan Willoughby: Professional Golfer
- Stacie Willoughby: Corporate Lawyer and Government advisor
- Brad Willoughby: Music Producer and Recording Engineer
- Grant Willoughby: Novelist and Screenwriter
- Mike Willoughby: Motivational Speaker
- Quentin Willoughby: Professional poker player and YouTuber
- Steve Willoughby: NFL sports analyst