White Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname White come from? What does the surname White mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name White and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname White Origin: What does the last name White mean?
White is a surname with origins in both England and Scotland/Ireland, with variations like MacGillebhàin and Mac Faoitigh. In England, it is the seventeenth most common surname, and in the United States, it ranked fourteenth in the 1990 Census. By 2014, it had fallen to the 22nd position. The surname White has a rich history and is widely spread globally, with a significant presence in countries like the United States and the United Kingdom. YourRoots data indicates its appearance in historical records from as early as the 13th century in England, with a notable increase in the United States from the 16th century onwards. Today, the White surname is not only prevalent in its countries of origin but also found in various regions worldwide, showcasing its extensive reach and evolution over time.
White Last Name History: Where did the last name White come from?
Origin of White Surname: Where does the last name White originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname White first made its appearance in historical records from England in the United Kingdom during the early 13th century. Please be aware that this only accounts for the specific spelling of "White" as it appears in the YourRoots database and may not include variations of the surname found in other record sources.
History of the Last Name White: What does the White surname history look like in the early days?
The White surname maintained a strong association with England from the 13th through the 15th century, according to YourRoots data. The frequency of White family records began to grow substantially in the United States from the 16th century onwards, indicating a shift in the surname's prominence over time.
Global Spread: Where can we find the White surname today?
By the 17th century, the volume of records indicating the White surname had significantly increased in the United States, even surpassing its origin country of England. This trend continued into the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, the White surname is not only prominent in the United States and the United Kingdom but also appears in a myriad of countries globally, reflecting its widespread dispersion over the centuries.
Explore White last name heritage and White surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With White Surame?
Snow White
Snow White (no middle name) is a famous German fairy tale character, known for her pure beauty and kind heart. First written down by the Brothers Grimm in the early 19th century, Snow White's story includes elements like the magic mirror, poisoned apple, and seven dwarfs. She captured the hearts of many through various adaptations, including the 1937 Disney film "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs." Despite facing jealousy and danger from her evil stepmother, Snow White's resilience and innocence have made her a beloved figure in fairy tale lore.
Jack White
John Anthony White (July 9, 1975 - present) is an American musician known for his role as the guitarist and lead singer of the rock duo the White Stripes. He has also had success with his solo career, collaborations with artists like Loretta Lynn and Bob Dylan, and founding bands like the Raconteurs and the Dead Weather. White is a Grammy Award winner, known for his distinctive musical style and eccentricity. He has been recognized as one of the greatest guitarists of all time by Rolling Stone and has a passion for vintage instruments and analog recording techniques.
Betty White
Betty Marion White (January 17, 1922 – December 31, 2021) was an iconic American actress and comedian known for her roles in hit TV shows like "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," "The Golden Girls," and "Hot in Cleveland." With a career spanning nearly seven decades, White was a pioneer of early television, earning seven Emmy Awards and a Grammy Award. She was beloved for her humor, wit, and charm, making her a legendary figure in the entertainment industry. White's legacy lives on through her timeless performances and her impact on the world of television.
Dana White
Dana Frederick White Jr. (born Jul 28, 1969) is an American businessman known as the CEO and president of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), a top global mixed martial arts organization. With a net worth of $500 million, White also owns Power Slap, a slap fighting promotion, and sits on Meta Platforms' board of directors. Raised in Connecticut and Massachusetts, White ventured into the fight business after boxing and managing MMA stars Tito Ortiz and Chuck Liddell. Under his leadership, the UFC thrived, with the reality series The Ultimate Fighter playing a key role in its success.
Vanna White
Vanna Marie White (February 18, 1957 - ) is an American television personality best known as the co-host of the game show Wheel of Fortune since 1982. She also appeared in various films and TV series, wrote an autobiography, and owns a yarn brand. White has received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and has made guest appearances on shows like RuPaul's Drag Race. Her long-standing role on Wheel of Fortune has made her a household name in the world of game shows.
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