What does the surname Willoughby mean?

The surname Willoughby means "Settlement by the willows or farmstead of Wilugh.". It is of English origin.

How common is the Willoughby surname?

There are approximately 15,000 people with the surname Willoughby in the United States.

Are there Willoughby soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 526 soldiers with the Willoughby surname appear in Civil War records.

Willoughby

Topographic

Meaning

Settlement by the willows or farmstead of Wilugh.

Etymology

Derived from Old English welig (willow) and by (settlement/farmstead), or from a personal name Wilugh combined with by. The name refers to several locations in England, particularly in Lincolnshire.

About the Willoughby Surname

A topographic surname derived from English place names, particularly in the East Midlands. The name became established among English nobility and gentry.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 15,000 bearers in the United States #908 most common surname

Rare Common

Primarily found in England, with some presence in North America and other English-speaking countries.

Willoughby Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Willoughby Surname

William Willoughby

Quick Facts

Origin: English
Classification: Topographic
Earliest Record: Medieval period (England)
Estimated Bearers: 15,000

War Records

526 soldiers with the Willoughby surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →