Williford Surname

The History of the Williford Surname

The surname Williford is of English origin, derived from the Old English personal name Wilfheard, which means "will-brave." The name has been recorded in various forms throughout history, including Wilfurd, Wilford, Wilfred, and Wilforth. It is a patronymic surname, meaning it was originally based on the name of the father or ancestor.

There is evidence of the Williford surname dating back to medieval England, where it was commonly found in the northern counties of Yorkshire and Lancashire. The name spread to other parts of England over time, and variations of the surname can be found in several regions of the country.

Popularity and Distribution

The Williford surname is most commonly found in the United States, where it is ranked as the 11,993rd most common surname. It is also present in other English-speaking countries such as England, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, though in smaller numbers.

In the United Kingdom, the Williford surname is most prevalent in England, particularly in the county of Essex. It is also found in Scotland, where it is much less common. Other European countries such as Germany, Belgium, and Italy have small numbers of individuals with the Williford surname.

Outside of Europe, the surname has made its way to countries such as Japan, India, Costa Rica, and Colombia, though in very small numbers. The surname's presence in these countries can be attributed to migration and colonization throughout history.

Famous Individuals with the Williford Surname

Despite its relatively low prevalence, the Williford surname has produced several notable individuals throughout history. One such individual is John Williford, an American politician who served as a member of the North Carolina House of Representatives in the early 19th century.

In the world of sports, basketball player Chris Williford gained recognition for his skills on the court, playing for various professional teams in the United States. Additionally, Sarah Williford became a well-known figure in the art world for her innovative paintings and sculptures.

Other prominent individuals with the Williford surname include authors, scientists, and business leaders who have made significant contributions to their respective fields.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Williford surname has a rich history that spans several centuries and multiple countries. While it may not be as common as some other surnames, it has left a lasting impact on various aspects of society through the achievements of individuals bearing the name. As the world continues to evolve, the Williford surname will likely continue to be passed down through generations, preserving its legacy for years to come.

The surname Williford into the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it is achievable to locate African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Equivalent occurs in the case of Williford, which as you're able to corroborate, it can be said that it is a surname that can be found in most of the countries of the globe. In the same manner you will find nations in which certainly the thickness of individuals using the surname Williford is greater than in other countries.

The map associated with Williford surname

1. United States (11993)
2. England (47)
3. Germany (10)
4. Japan (3)
5. Scotland (2)
6. Belgium (1)
7. Canada (1)
8. Colombia (1)
9. Costa Rica (1)
10. Georgia (1)
11. Guam (1)
12. Isle of Man (1)
13. India (1)
14. Italy (1)
15. Luxembourg (1)
16. Madagascar (1)
17. New Zealand (1)