Sidney Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Sidney come from? What does the surname Sidney mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Sidney and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Sidney Origin: What does the last name Sidney mean?
The surname Sidney, originating from England, likely comes from an Anglo-Saxon locational name meaning "[at the] wide island/watermeadow." Alternatively, it may have a connection to the French place name Saint Denis. The name has been used as a given name since the 19th century. Records show its appearance in England in the early 12th century, and by the 20th century, it had spread to countries like the United States, remaining prominent in regions such as England and the United States.
YourRoots data confirms the presence of the Sidney surname in the United Kingdom since the early 12th century, with a steady expansion over the centuries. The surname has a significant global presence, appearing in various countries worldwide, showcasing its enduring legacy and widespread reach across different regions and cultures.
Sidney Last Name History: Where did the last name Sidney come from?
Origin of Sidney Surname: Where does the last name Sidney originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Sidney first appeared in records from England around the early 12th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Sidney spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Sidney: What does the Sidney surname history look like in the early days?
The Sidney surname remained closely associated with England from the 12th to the 16th century. YourRoots data also shows Sidney family records in countries like the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Sidney surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Sidney surname grew significantly in England and the United States. The Sidney surname remains prominent in these regions. It appears in many countries, including the United Kingdom and the United States.
Explore Sidney last name heritage and Sidney surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Sidney Surame?
Sylvia Sidney
Sylvia Sidney (born Sophia Kosow; August 8, 1910 – July 1, 1999) was an American actress known for her iconic roles spanning 70 years in stage, screen, and film. She gained fame in the 1930s with leading roles and earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress in 1973. Sidney's memorable performances include "Beetlejuice" and "An Early Frost", showcasing her talent and versatility. With a career that touched multiple generations, she left a lasting impact on Hollywood with her unique voice and powerful portrayals, making her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
Philip Sidney
Sir Philip Sidney (Nov 30, 1554 - Oct 17, 1586) was an English poet, courtier, scholar, and soldier known for his works during the Elizabethan age. He wrote sonnets, a treatise on poetry, and a pastoral romance. Sidney's funeral procession in London was lavish, showcasing his prominence. Born into an aristocratic family, he traveled Europe and engaged in politics and art. He had literary connections with prominent poets like Edmund Spenser and wrote love sonnets dedicated to Lady Penelope Rich. Despite not publishing during his lifetime, Sidney's work circulated in manuscripts and influenced English literature.
Saniyya Sidney
Saniyya Sidney (October 30, 2006 -) is an American actress known for her roles in popular TV series and films. She gained recognition for her performances in American Horror Story: Roanoke and Fences, which earned her award nominations. Sidney also appeared in Hidden Figures and Fast Color before starring in FOX's The Passage and portraying young Venus Williams in King Richard. Her talent and versatility have earned her critical acclaim and nominations for various awards, showcasing her as a rising star in Hollywood.
George Sidney
George Sidney (Oct 4, 1916 – May 5, 2002) was an American film director and producer known for his work at Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. He directed cult classics like "Bye Bye Birdie" and "Viva Las Vegas" and was a key figure in post-war Hollywood musicals. Sidney also co-founded the Hanna-Barbera animation studio and was a proponent of integrating animation into live action films. He was a president of the Screen Directors Guild and known for his impeccable sense of style and generosity. His contributions to the film industry are celebrated and his legacy lives on at The Smithsonian National Museum of American History.
Mary Sidney
Mary Sidney Herbert, Countess of Pembroke (née Sidney, 27 Oct 1561 – 25 Sep 1621), was an influential English poet and literary patron. Known for her translations and lyrical works, she was a key figure in the literary scene of her time. As a member of the Wilton Circle, she hosted gatherings with notable poets like Shakespeare, Spenser, and Jonson at Wilton House. Her literary contributions and patronage left a lasting impact on the Renaissance era.
All images displayed on this page are sourced from Wikipedia or Wikimedia Commons.We use these images under their respective Creative Commons or public domain licenses. Wherever applicable, author attributions and license information are provided. If you believe an image is used incorrectly or outside its license terms, please contact us so that we can review and correct the issue.