Harvey Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Harvey come from? What does the surname Harvey mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Harvey and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Harvey Origin: What does the last name Harvey mean?
The surname Harvey has origins in both England and Ireland, with the English variation deriving from the Old Breton name Huiarnviu, meaning "iron blazing." Another theory suggests it could stem from the Gaelic name Ó hAirmheadhaigh in Ireland. The surname has been recorded in the United Kingdom since the 12th century, with a growing presence in the United States by the 17th century. Today, the Harvey surname is prevalent in countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and more.
YourRoots data confirms the historical presence of the Harvey surname in the United Kingdom since the 12th century, with a subsequent global spread over the centuries. The surname has become widespread in the United States and can also be found in various countries worldwide. This rich heritage reflects the diverse origins and evolution of the Harvey surname, showcasing its enduring legacy across different regions and cultures.
Harvey Last Name History: Where did the last name Harvey come from?
Origin of Harvey Surname: Where does the last name Harvey originate from?
The surname Harvey was first recorded in the United Kingdom, specifically England, around the early 12th century, as per the YourRoots database. However, this only covers the exact spelling of "Harvey" and does not account for other potential sources or variations of the surname.
History of the Last Name Harvey: What does the Harvey surname history look like in the early days?
The Harvey surname was closely tied to the United Kingdom, specifically England, from the 12th to the 16th century, as indicated by the YourRoots data. The records suggest a growing presence of the Harvey family in countries such as the United States during the 17th century, reflecting a gradual global expansion over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Harvey surname today?
Starting from the 17th century, the frequency of records bearing the Harvey surname saw a significant increase in the United States, surpassing the United Kingdom. This trend continued through the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, the Harvey surname remains highly prevalent in the United States and has also spread to various regions worldwide. It can be found in a vast array of countries, including but not limited to the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Ireland, France, Germany, and Scotland.
Explore Harvey last name heritage and Harvey surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Harvey Surame?
Steve Harvey
Broderick Stephen Harvey Sr. (born Jan 17, 1957) is an American comedian, television host, actor, writer, and producer. He is best known for hosting popular shows like Family Feud, Celebrity Family Feud, and Judge Steve Harvey. Harvey has received numerous awards for his work, including Daytime Emmy Awards and NAACP Image Awards. In addition to his television career, he is also an author and founder of Steve Harvey Global. Despite facing early life challenges, Harvey has become a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, with a successful career spanning over several decades.
PJ Harvey
Polly Jean Harvey (born Oct 9, 1969) is an English singer-songwriter known for her powerful vocals and versatile musical talents. Starting her career in the late 1980s, Harvey gained fame as the lead vocalist and guitarist of the band PJ Harvey. She has released numerous acclaimed albums and received prestigious awards, including the Mercury Prize and Brit Awards. Harvey's unique blend of rock, blues, and folk influences has solidified her as a prominent figure in the music industry.
Laurence Harvey
Laurence Harvey (Zvi Mosheh Skikne; 1 Oct 1928 – 25 Nov 1973) was a Lithuanian-born British actor known for his refined accent and debonair screen persona. He received an Academy Award nomination for his role in "Room at the Top" (1959) and starred in films like "The Manchurian Candidate" (1962). Harvey also directed "The Ceremony" (1963) before his early death from cancer at 45. Born Larushka Mischa Skikne, he moved to South Africa at a young age and later established himself in the UK after World War II. His career spanned stage, film, and television productions in the UK and the US.
Marcus Harvey
Marcus Harvey (born 1963) is an English artist and painter known for being one of the Young British Artists (YBAs). His provocative works have been featured in exhibitions around the world, including the infamous "The Führer's Cakes" in Bologna and "Sex and the British" in Salzburg. Harvey's art combines painting, photography, and sculpture to explore British iconography and cultural history. He gained notoriety for his controversial portrayal of Moors murderer Myra Hindley, which was attacked at the Royal Academy of Art in 1997. Harvey continues to push boundaries with his politically charged works, earning him a prominent place in the contemporary art scene.
Derrick Harvey
Derrick Harvey (November 9, 1986 - ) is an American former professional football player known for his time as a defensive end in the NFL. He played college football for the University of Florida, winning a BCS National Championship. Selected in the first round of the 2008 NFL draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars, Harvey also played for the Denver Broncos. With a successful college career and notable achievements in the NFL, Harvey made a name for himself in the world of American football.
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