Newman Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Newman come from? What does the surname Newman mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Newman and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Newman Origin: What does the last name Newman mean?
Newman is a surname of Germanic Anglo-Saxon origins, derived from the Old English word neowe meaning "new" and mann meaning "man". It first appeared in England in 1169 as Godwin Nieweman and in Germany in 1325 as Herman Nyeman. The name was likely used as a nickname for a recent arrival or settler. Today, Newman is a common surname in the core Anglosphere, with variations like Neuman, Naumann(s), Numan, Nauman, and Neiman.
YourRoots data shows that the Newman surname has been present in the United Kingdom since the early 15th century, with records showing a significant increase in the United States by the 17th century. The surname has since spread globally, with a strong presence in countries like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, India, Germany, Ireland, France, and Sweden. This widespread distribution reflects the enduring legacy of the Newman surname across various regions and cultures.
Newman Last Name History: Where did the last name Newman come from?
Origin of Newman Surname: Where does the last name Newman originate from?
Based on the YourRoots database, the earliest recorded instance of the surname Newman is found in the United Kingdom, specifically England, from the early 15th century. Keep in mind that these records only represent the exact spelling of "Newman" in the YourRoots database, and do not account for other potential sources or variations of the surname.
History of the Last Name Newman: What does the Newman surname history look like in the early days?
The Newman surname remained predominantly in the United Kingdom, particularly England, from the 15th through the 16th centuries according to YourRoots data. However, by the 17th century, the frequency of Newman records began to increase significantly in the United States, indicating that the surname was starting to spread globally.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Newman surname today?
The 18th and 19th centuries saw a considerable rise in the volume of Newman records in the United States, surpassing that of the United Kingdom. This trend continued into the 20th century, solidifying the presence of the Newman surname in the United States. Today, the Newman surname is most frequently found in the United States, but its global spread is evident with records found in numerous countries, such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, India, Germany, Ireland, France, Sweden, and more.
Explore Newman last name heritage and Newman surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Newman Surame?
Randy Newman
Randall Stuart Newman (November 28, 1943 - present) is an American singer, songwriter, and composer known for his unique Southern-accented singing style and satirical lyrics. He has created hits like "Short People," "I Love L.A.," and "You've Got a Friend in Me." Newman has also composed scores for numerous Disney-Pixar animated films, including the Toy Story series. With multiple Academy Award nominations and wins, he is a highly respected figure in the music and film industry. Newman's family has a rich history in Hollywood, with several members being successful film composers. His contributions to music and film have earned him a well-deserved spot in the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Royce Newman
Royce Dalton Newman (August 17, 1997 - ) is an American professional football guard known for his time with the Green Bay Packers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and currently, the Arizona Cardinals in the NFL. Newman played college football for the Ole Miss Rebels before being drafted in 2021. His journey from the Packers to the Buccaneers and eventually landing with the Cardinals showcases his skills and adaptability in the competitive world of professional football.
Carl Newman
Carl Newman is a Canadian musician and songwriter, born on April 14, 1968. He is best known as the frontman of the indie rock band The New Pornographers. Newman has also released solo albums and has collaborated with various artists in the music industry. His music is characterized by catchy melodies, clever lyrics, and intricate arrangements. Newman's work has been praised by critics and has gained a loyal fan base over the years. He continues to be a prominent figure in the alternative music scene, showcasing his talent as a versatile and innovative musician.
Andrea Newman
Andrea Jean Newman (7 Feb 1938 – 9 Nov 2019) was an English fiction writer known for her compelling storytelling and adaptations for television. Born in Dover, Kent, she gained fame with the TV series "Bouquet of Barbed Wire," which attracted millions of viewers. Newman's works often explored controversial themes like family disintegration and societal taboos. She continued to write and adapt her novels for the screen, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. Andrea Newman passed away in London at the age of 81 after battling breast cancer, leaving behind a legacy of captivating storytelling.
Seymour Newman
Seymour Newman (May 17, 1953 - ) is a Jamaican former athlete known for his success in short and middle-distance running events. He represented Jamaica in the 1976 Summer Olympics, reaching the semi-finals of the 800 meters. Newman also excelled in the 400 meters, winning gold at the 1977 Central American and Caribbean Championships. His personal best time of 1:45.2 in the 800 meters, set in 1977, still stands as a Jamaican national record. Newman's achievements in track and field have left a lasting legacy in Jamaican sports history.
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