The English Family History

What Does the English Surname Mean? Historical Origins Explained

The surname English has its roots in the Old English word 'englisc,' which initially denoted the Anglo people of early England. Variations in spelling for this surname include Englys, Inglys, Inglish, and Inglis. The surname is widespread throughout England, extending into Wales as well. A significant concentration of individuals bearing the surname English can be found in the cities of London, as well as in the counties of Essex, Norfolk, Suffolk, Lancashire, Yorkshire, Northumberland, and Durham. Many individuals with this surname later emigrated to countries such as Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, and Canada. In Scotland, the English surname is particularly prevalent in regions including Ayrshire, Lanarkshire, Midlothian, Renfrewshire, and Stirlingshire. In the United States, the surname was initially most common in New York, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Ohio, Illinois, Texas, Alabama, Virginia, Michigan, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New Jersey. Notable individuals with the surname English include John English, a British film director; William English, a designer known for the computer mouse; Bill English, an actor; Jon English, both an actor and singer; John English, a Canadian ice hockey player; and Jack English, a footballer from England.