The Small Family History

What Does the Small Surname Mean? Historical Origins Explained

The surname Small, of English origin, derives from the Old English term ‘smael,’ which translates to slender or petite. Its German equivalents include Klein and Schmal, while the French variant is Petit. The surname exhibits various spellings, such as Smallin, Smals, Smales, Smalin, Smale, and Smailes. In England, Staffordshire boasts the largest concentration of families bearing the Small surname, alongside the city of London. Additional regions with notable populations of Small families include Durham, Yorkshire, Kent, Surrey, Hampshire, Devon, and Somerset. In Scotland, Small households primarily established themselves in Perthshire, Angus, Midlothian, and Lanarkshire. In the United States, individuals with the Small surname predominantly trace their roots to Maine, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia, and Ohio. Among prominent figures bearing this surname are Bertrice Small, known for her historical novels; Eric Small, a producer, director, and writer in film and television; James Small, an 18th-century Scottish innovator credited with inventing the iron swing plough; Sharon Small, a Scottish actress; Jack Small, an English footballer; Brendon Small, a musician, actor, and composer; Fred Small, a singer-songwriter; and John Small, a 19th-century English cricketer.