By Genomelink

Create Your Family Tree Map

SIGN UP

Waite Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning

Where did the surname Waite come from? What does the surname Waite mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Waite and family migration on YourRoots Map.


Similar surnames:

Surname Waite Origin: What does the last name Waite mean?

Waite is an English surname of Norman origin, derived from the old high German word "wahten," meaning to keep watch. Common in Teutonic languages, it signifies a guard or watchman, with variants like Wait, Wayte, Waits, and Waight. As an occupational name, Waite was historically used for a watchman in towns or castles, originating from the Anglo-Norman French word "waite." The earliest records of the Waite surname date back to the early 15th century in England, with a notable increase in the United States by the 16th century.

YourRoots data highlights the global spread of the Waite surname, with the United States emerging as a significant region. While the United Kingdom remains a crucial area for the Waite family name, countries like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa also feature prominently in the surname's history. Today, the Waite surname is most commonly found in the United States, showcasing its enduring presence across different regions and cultures.

Waite Last Name History: Where did the last name Waite come from?

Origin of Waite Surname: Where does the last name Waite originate from?

The earliest record of the surname Waite, as per the YourRoots data, can be traced back to the United Kingdom, specifically England, around the early 15th century. It's important to note that this information represents only the exact spelling of "Waite" within the YourRoots database and does not account for alternate spellings or different data sources.

History of the Last Name Waite: What does the Waite surname history look like in the early days?

In the early centuries, the surname Waite was primarily associated with England. However, by the turn of the 16th century, the frequency of the name notably increased in the United States. While the United Kingdom remained a significant region for the Waite surname, the United States started to emerge as a pivotal locale in the history of the Waite family name during this period.

Global Spread: Where can we find the Waite surname today?

The 17th century marked a turning point for the Waite surname, with the United States becoming the region with the highest volume of records. This trend continued into the subsequent centuries. Today, the Waite surname is most commonly found in the United States, but it also features prominently in other countries. It's prevalent in places like United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, showcasing its global spread.


Explore Waite last name heritage and Waite surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Waite surname origin, history, meaning based on YourRoots Map dataVIEW THE ORIGIN OF SURNAME WAITE

Famous People With Waite Surame?

  • YourRoots Map_Surname_Famous People_Ralph Waite

    Ralph Waite

    Ralph Waite (June 22, 1928 – February 13, 2014) was an American actor best known for his lead role as John Walton Sr. on the iconic TV series "The Waltons" (1972–1981). He also appeared in popular shows like "NCIS" and "Bones." With a diverse filmography including "Cool Hand Luke" and "Cliffhanger," Waite's talents shone on both the big and small screens. Additionally, he had a successful stage career, earning accolades for his role in the Pulitzer Prize-winning play "The Young Man from Atlanta." Waite's legacy lives on through his memorable performances and contributions to entertainment.

  • YourRoots Map_Surname_Famous People_John Waite

    John Waite

    John Charles Waite (born 4 Jul 1952) is an English rock singer and musician best known for the 1984 hit single "Missing You". He was the lead vocalist for rock bands the Babys and Bad English. Waite has released ten studio albums, including No Brakes, which achieved international success. His music has been featured in films like Vision Quest and Days of Thunder. Waite continues to tour and collaborate with other artists, showcasing his timeless talent in the music industry.

  • YourRoots Map_Surname_Famous People_Terry Waite

    Terry Waite

    Sir Terence Hardy Waite (May 31, 1939 - ) is a British human rights activist and author known for his work as an envoy for the Church of England. He gained international attention after being kidnapped and held captive from 1987 to 1991 while trying to secure the release of hostages in Lebanon. Waite later wrote a memoir about his experiences and continued to be involved in humanitarian causes and charitable work. His dedication to helping others and his resilience in the face of adversity have made him a respected figure in the field of human rights.

  • YourRoots Map_Surname_Famous People_Terry Waite

    Genevieve Waite

    Genevieve Joyce Waïte (February 13, 1948 – May 18, 2019) was a South African actress, singer, and model best known for her role as the title character in the 1968 film "Joanna." She was a muse to photographer Richard Avedon and recorded her only album produced by her husband, John Phillips of the Mamas and the Papas. With a singing voice described as "Betty Boop crossed with Billie Holiday," Waite also starred in a short-lived Broadway musical and appeared in various films. Her legacy lives on through her music and film contributions during the 1970s.

  • YourRoots Map_Surname_Famous People_Terry Waite

    Morrison Waite

    Morrison Remick "Mott" Waite (Nov 29, 1816 – Mar 23, 1888) was an American attorney and politician who served as the seventh chief justice of the United States. He played a key role in interpreting federal authority during the Reconstruction Era, focusing on the rights of freedmen. Waite's tenure was marked by his efforts to balance federal and state power, and his influence on government regulation and corporate personhood. Despite not being a prominent intellectual force, he was respected for his administrative skills and conciliatory nature. Waite's legacy includes upholding government regulation in Munn v. Illinois and establishing the legal concept of corporate personhood in the U.S.

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.