How common is the Sly surname?

There are approximately 8,500 people with the surname Sly in the United States.

Are there Sly soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 119 soldiers with the Sly surname appear in Civil War records.

Sly

Q: What does the surname Sly mean?

The surname Sly means "Derived from a descriptive term meaning cunning or clever, or possibly from an occupational term.". It is of English, possibly descriptive or occupational origin.

Descriptive

Meaning

Derived from a descriptive term meaning cunning or clever, or possibly from an occupational term.

Etymology

From Middle English 'sly' (cunning, clever), derived from Old Norse 'slœgr'. The surname may have originated as a nickname for a clever or cunning person.

About the Sly Surname

A descriptive surname originating as a nickname for a clever or cunning individual. The name has been in use since medieval times.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 8,500 bearers in the United States #1,214 most common surname

Rare Common

Found in England and English-speaking regions worldwide.

Sly Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Sly Surname

Jack Sly

Quick Facts

Origin: English, possibly descriptive or occupational
Classification: Descriptive
Earliest Record: 13th century England
Estimated Bearers: 8,500

War Records

119 soldiers with the Sly surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →

Sly