Wolfe Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Wolfe come from? What does the surname Wolfe mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Wolfe and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Wolfe Origin: What does the last name Wolfe mean?
The surname Wolfe originates from England in the early 16th century, according to YourRoots data. It is believed to have ties to the English word for the animal wolf. Throughout the 17th century, the Wolfe surname saw significant growth in Germany and the United States. Today, it is not only prevalent in the United States but also in countries like the United Kingdom, Germany, Canada, Australia, South Africa, and more, showcasing a widespread global distribution.
YourRoots data confirms the early presence of the Wolfe surname in the United Kingdom dating back to the 18th century. The name rapidly spread across various countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Canada, and beyond in the following centuries. The Wolfe surname continues to hold a strong presence in multiple regions worldwide, reflecting a diverse and extensive heritage.
Wolfe Last Name History: Where did the last name Wolfe come from?
Origin of Wolfe Surname: Where does the last name Wolfe originate from?
Based on the records from YourRoots, the surname Wolfe makes its earliest appearance in England around the early 16th century. This data specifically pertains to the exact spelling “Wolfe” and may not encompass all record sources or variations of the surname.
History of the Last Name Wolfe: What does the Wolfe surname history look like in the early days?
Throughout the 16th century, the surname Wolfe maintained a strong association with England. However, as per YourRoots data, the frequency of Wolfe family records started to increase significantly in Germany and the United States from the 17th century. The data indicates an early growth and spread of the Wolfe surname across these regions during these centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Wolfe surname today?
The 18th century marked a surge in the volume of records containing the Wolfe surname in the United States, a trend that continued through the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, the surname Wolfe is not only prominent in the United States but also has a substantial presence in various countries worldwide. According to YourRoots data, it can be found in countries like United Kingdom, Germany, Canada, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, Ireland, France, Sweden and Switzerland, showcasing a wide global distribution of the Wolfe surname.
Explore Wolfe last name heritage and Wolfe surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Wolfe Surame?
Tom Wolfe
Thomas Kennerly Wolfe Jr. (March 2, 1930 – May 14, 2018) was an American author and journalist known for his association with New Journalism. His satirical work focused on the counterculture of the 1960s and issues related to class and social status in New York City. Wolfe wrote best-selling books like "The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test" and "The Right Stuff," which was made into a film. He also penned "The Bonfire of the Vanities," a critically acclaimed novel. Wolfe's writing style incorporated literary techniques, making him a prominent figure in American literature and journalism.
Thomas Wolfe
Thomas Clayton Wolfe (Oct 3, 1900 – Sept 15, 1938) was an influential American novelist known for his autobiographical fiction. He wrote the acclaimed novel "Look Homeward, Angel" and was a key figure in the Southern Renaissance of American literature. Wolfe's unique prose style and exploration of American culture have earned him a lasting place in the literary canon. His works have inspired generations of writers, including Jack Kerouac and Ray Bradbury. Wolfe's legacy continues to be celebrated for his contributions to 20th-century literature.
Collette Wolfe
Collette Marie Wolfe (born April 4, 1980) is an American actress known for her roles in popular films such as Observe and Report, Hot Tub Time Machine, and Young Adult. She has also appeared in television series like 100 Questions, Cougar Town, and You're the Worst. Wolfe's career has spanned various genres, showcasing her versatility as an actress. In her personal life, she is married to writer-director Nick Stefanko, with whom she shares a child. With a successful career in both film and television, Wolfe continues to captivate audiences with her talent and charm.
Gene Wolfe
Gene Rodman Wolfe (May 7, 1931 – April 14, 2019) was an American science fiction and fantasy writer known for his dense, allusive prose and strong Catholic faith influence. He was dubbed "the Melville of science fiction" and honored as a Grand Master by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America. Wolfe's most famous work is the Book of the New Sun series, part of his "Solar Cycle", which includes four volumes. He also published stand-alone novels like Peace and The Fifth Head of Cerberus. Wolfe's writing career began while attending Texas A&M University, and he later worked as an industrial engineer before retiring to write full-time. He passed away at age 87 in 2019.
Chelsea Wolfe
Chelsea Joy Wolfe (born Nov 14, 1983) is an American singer-songwriter and musician known for blending elements of gothic rock, doom metal, folk, neofolk, and electronic music. She gained recognition for her albums like "The Grime and the Glow" and "Apokalypsis," evolving to incorporate heavy metal in "Hiss Spun" and acoustic songs in "Unknown Rooms." Wolfe has collaborated with bands like Converge and composers like Tyler Bates, showcasing her versatile musical style. With a unique blend of genres and haunting vocals, Wolfe continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
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