What is the origin of the last name Alby?

The surname Alby is of English origin, derived from the Old Norse personal name "Alfi" or "Ailfr," meaning "elf" or "elf counsel." The name was brought to England during the Viking invasions and later evolved into the surname Alby.
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Learn more about the origin of the last name Alby

The meaning and origin of the last name Alby

The surname Alby is of English origin and derives from the Old Norse personal name "Albi", which is a short form of various compound names with the first element "Alf-" or "Afl-", meaning elf. The name likely originated as a nickname for someone with elf-like characteristics or qualities. The surname Alby is now primarily found in the United States and is relatively rare.

Geographical distribution of the last name Alby

The last name Alby is most commonly found in France, specifically in the region of Brittany. It can also be found in Sweden, Norway, and Denmark. Additionally, there are some individuals with the last name Alby in the United States and Canada.

Variants and spellings of the last name Alby

1. Alby
2. Albi
3. Albee
4. Albie
5. Albee
6. Albiyy

Famous people with the last name Alby

1. Alfred Alby - French mathematician and physicist
2. Paul Alby - French painter and sculptor
3. Sarah Alby - American actress and singer

Genealogical research on the last name Alby

The last name Alby is of English origin and is believed to be a locational surname derived from the Old English word "albe" which means white or fair, combined with the word "by" meaning a settlement or farm. This surname may have been used to describe someone who lived in or near a settlement known for its white buildings or soil. The first recorded spelling of the name Alby dates back to the 12th century in the county of Norfolk in England. Variants of this surname include Albie, Allbe, and Hallby. Research into the genealogy of the Alby surname may reveal connections to specific regions in England as well as migration patterns to other countries over the centuries.

Last name distribution maps

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NomOrigine Team
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NomOrigine Team

Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.

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