Washington Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Washington come from? What does the surname Washington mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Washington and family migration on YourRoots Map.
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Surname Washington Origin: What does the last name Washington mean?
Washington is a surname with origins in England, specifically from the place name Washington in Tyne and Wear. The surname became prominent in 1183 when William de Hertburn adopted the name William de Wassyngtona. It later made its way to Virginia in 1657, gaining further recognition due to General George Washington and his family. Over time, the surname also became popular among freed slaves in America, adding to its prevalence among the black population. The name Washington is often associated with George Washington, the first president of the United States, and is commonly used as a male given name, particularly in the United States and South America.
YourRoots data shows that the Washington surname has a long history, dating back to the early 12th century in the United Kingdom. The surname's presence expanded to the United States in the 16th century, surpassing its popularity in the UK. Today, the Washington surname remains prominent in the United States and can also be found in various countries worldwide. This surname's enduring legacy reflects its association with the Washington family, George Washington's contributions to American history, and its widespread adoption among diverse populations.
Washington Last Name History: Where did the last name Washington come from?
Origin of Washington Surname: Where does the last name Washington originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Washington first appeared in records from the United Kingdom around the early 12th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact “Washington” spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Washington: What does the Washington surname history look like in the early days?
The “Washington” surname remained closely associated with the United Kingdom from the 12th through the 15th century. YourRoots data also shows Washington family records in the United States starting from the 16th century, indicating a shift over time.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Washington surname today?
By the 17th century, the volume of records with the Washington surname grew significantly in the United States. By the early 18th century, it had surpassed the United Kingdom, a trend that continued into the 19th and 20th centuries. The “Washington” surname remains prominent in the United States today. It can also be found in other regions worldwide, although the exact countries will need to be derived from additional YourRoots data.
Explore Washington last name heritage and Washington surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

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