Willoughby Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Willoughby come from? What does the surname Willoughby mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Willoughby and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Willoughby Origin: What does the last name Willoughby mean?
The surname Willoughby has English origins, first appearing in records from England around the early 12th century. It remained closely associated with England from the 12th to the 15th century. YourRoots data also indicates a significant increase in Willoughby family records in the United States from the 16th century onwards, suggesting a transatlantic expansion during this period.
By the 17th century, the frequency of records with the Willoughby surname notably grew in the United States, surpassing England by the early 18th century. Today, the surname remains prominent in the United States while still being present in a substantial number of records in England. It can also be found in various countries globally, highlighting the surname's widespread distribution over the centuries.
Willoughby Last Name History: Where did the last name Willoughby come from?
Origin of Willoughby Surname: Where does the last name Willoughby originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Willoughby first appears in records from England (United Kingdom) around the early 12th century. Please keep in mind that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact "Willoughby" spelling and does not consider other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Willoughby: What does the Willoughby surname history look like in the early days?
The "Willoughby" surname remained strongly associated with England from the 12th through the 15th century. YourRoots data also shows a significant increase in the frequency of Willoughby family records in the United States from the 16th century onwards, indicating an expansion across the Atlantic during this period.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Willoughby surname today?
By the 17th century, the frequency of records with the Willoughby surname grew significantly in the United States. By the early 18th century, it had surpassed England, a trend that continued into the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, the "Willoughby" surname remains prominent in the United States, while still appearing in a significant volume of records in England. It is also found in other countries around the globe, reflecting the surname's global spread over the centuries.
Explore Willoughby last name heritage and Willoughby surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Willoughby Surame?
India Willoughby
India Scarlett Willoughby (born Sep 2, 1965) is an English newsreader, broadcaster, journalist, and reality television personality. She made history as Britain's first transgender national television newsreader and co-host of the all-women talk show, Loose Women. Willoughby faced online abuse and threats, leading to police protection. She won the Diversity in Media Award for Media Moment of the Year in 2017 and was a previous nominee for a British LGBT Award. Willoughby continues to advocate for transgender rights and visibility in the media.
Holly Willoughby
Holly Marie Willoughby (February 10, 1981 - ) is an English television presenter, author, and model known for hosting popular shows like This Morning and Dancing on Ice. She began her career as a children's entertainer before moving on to present various TV programs, winning a BAFTA Children's Award in 2006. Willoughby's warm personality and charm have made her a beloved figure in the British entertainment industry. She is also a brand ambassador for Marks & Spencer and Garnier, showcasing her versatility in both television and fashion.
Charles A. Willoughby
Charles Andrew Willoughby (March 8, 1892 – October 25, 1972) was a major general in the U.S. Army and Chief of Military Intelligence for General Douglas MacArthur during World War II and the Korean War. Immigrating from Germany, he served in various roles, including as an instructor in World War I and a military attaché in South America. Willoughby's work in intelligence was crucial in MacArthur's campaigns in the Pacific. Controversy surrounded his handling of the Korean War, leading to his retirement in 1951. He continued to contribute to military intelligence and published a book on MacArthur's campaigns. His birth name and lineage remain subjects of debate.
Marlene Willoughby
Marlene Willoughby (born October 17, 1948) is an American former adult film actress and model known for her versatile career in mainstream film, television, and theatre. With a background in singing and acting, Willoughby made a name for herself in both softcore and hardcore adult films, as well as in theater productions like the Obie Award-winning Dracula Sabbat. She also appeared in mainstream movies like Trading Places and Married to the Mob. Willoughby was noted for her tongue-in-cheek acting style and activism in support of the porn industry. Her legacy includes a range of performances that showcased her talent and dedication to her craft.
Bill Willoughby
William Wesley Willoughby (May 20, 1957) is a former American professional basketball player known for his athleticism and playing for six NBA teams in eight years. Nicknamed "Poodle" and “Son of Flubber”, he made his mark by blocking Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's famous "skyhook" and playing a key role in the 1981 NBA Finals. After his playing career, he received his degree in communications and became a special advisor to the NBA, counseling high school players. Willoughby's legacy in the NBA is remembered for his unique journey from high school to the pros and his impact on young basketball talents.
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