Gilespie Surname

Introduction

The surname 'Gilespie' is a fascinating name with a rich history and widespread distribution across various countries. In this article, we will delve into the origins, meaning, and significance of the surname 'Gilespie'. We will also explore its prevalence in different regions and its variations in spelling.

Origins and Meaning

The surname 'Gilespie' is of Scottish origin and is derived from the popular given name 'Giles'. The name 'Giles' itself is of Greek origin, stemming from the name 'Aegidius', which means 'shield' or 'protection'. Over time, the name 'Giles' evolved into various forms, including 'Gilbert', 'Gilbertson', and 'Gilespie'.

The 'pie' suffix in 'Gilespie' is a common feature in Scottish surnames, denoting 'son of', indicating that 'Gilespie' means 'son of Giles'. This patronymic naming convention was prevalent in medieval Scotland, where surnames were often formed by adding 'son of' to the father's name.

Distribution

United States

In the United States, the surname 'Gilespie' has a significant incidence, with a prevalence of 97 individuals bearing the name. The name likely arrived in the US through Scottish immigrants who settled in various regions, carrying their surnames with them.

United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Northern Ireland)

In the United Kingdom, the surname 'Gilespie' is most common in England, with an incidence of 19 individuals. It is also present in Scotland and Northern Ireland, with incidences of 4 and 1 respectively. The name may have originated in Scotland and spread to other parts of the UK over time.

Jamaica, Australia, Ireland, Russia, Canada

The surname 'Gilespie' is also found in several other countries, including Jamaica, Australia, Ireland, Russia, and Canada. In Jamaica, the name has an incidence of 8 individuals, indicating a presence of Scottish ancestry in the region. Australia, Ireland, Russia, and Canada each have a smaller incidence of 6, 3, 2, and 1 respectively.

Variations in Spelling

Like many surnames, 'Gilespie' has several variations in spelling that have emerged over time. Some common variations include 'Gillespie', 'Gillispie', 'Gillespy', and 'Gilesby'. These variations may have arisen due to regional dialects, phonetic changes, or clerical errors in record-keeping.

Despite the different spellings, these variations are all derived from the original name 'Giles' and carry the same meaning of 'son of Giles'. The variations in spelling highlight the diversity and adaptability of surnames as they are passed down through generations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the surname 'Gilespie' is a distinctive and historically significant name with a strong presence in various countries around the world. Its origins in Scotland, meaningful derivation from the name 'Giles', and prevalence in different regions make it a fascinating subject of study for genealogists and surname enthusiasts alike.

The surname Gilespie in the world

Globalization has meant that surnames spread far beyond their nation of origin, such that it can be done to locate African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Similar takes place when it comes to Gilespie, which as you can corroborate, it may be stated that it's a surname which can be present in all the nations regarding the world. Just as you will find countries by which definitely the density of individuals aided by the surname Gilespie is higher than far away.

The map associated with the Gilespie surname

View Gilespie surname map

The possibility of examining for a world map about which countries hold more Gilespie in the world, assists us a whole lot. By placing ourselves on the map, on a concrete nation, we can start to see the concrete amount of people utilizing the surname Gilespie, to have in this way the complete information of all of the Gilespie you could currently get in that nation. All of this additionally helps us to know not only where the surname Gilespie arises from, but also in what manner the people who're originally area of the family that bears the surname Gilespie have relocated and relocated. In the same manner, you'll be able to see in which places they've settled and grown up, which explains why if Gilespie is our surname, this indicates interesting to which other nations associated with the globe it is possible that one of our ancestors once moved to.

Nations with additional Gilespie worldwide

Gilespie Surname

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