Last Name Poole

The last name "Poole" has English origins. It is derived from the Middle English word "po(e)l," which means a small body of water or pool. It was commonly used as a topographic surname for someone who lived near a pool or body of water. The name could also be occupational, referring to a pool keeper or fisherman. The variations of the surname include Pole, Pools, and Poolman.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Poole

The meaning and origin of the last name Poole

The surname Poole has multiple possible origins and meanings. One theory suggests it is derived from the Middle English word "pol," meaning "a pool" or a small body of water, and was originally given as a topographic name to someone who lived by a pool or pond. Another possibility is that it originated as a habitational name for individuals who resided in one of several places named Poole in England, such as the coastal town in Dorset. The name might also have been occupational, referring to a person involved in the fishing industry or plying their trade in or around pools or ponds. The surname Poole has existed since at least the 13th century and is found predominantly in England, particularly in the West Country. Over time, spelling variations have occurred, leading to different forms of the name such as Pool, Pole, and Poolman. The Poole name has also spread to other English-speaking countries through migration, such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Geographical distribution of the last name Poole

The surname Poole has a relatively widespread geographical distribution. It is most commonly found in the United Kingdom, particularly in England. The name originated from places named Poole, such as the coastal town in Dorset which lent its name to many individuals. Consequently, there is a significant concentration of individuals with the last name Poole in the southern region of England, including counties like Dorset, Hampshire, and Wiltshire. Beyond the UK, the name Poole can also be found in other English-speaking countries, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. As these countries were colonized by the British, there may have been migrations and dispersals of individuals with the surname. Additionally, immigration and surname adoption processes throughout history have likely contributed to the presence of the name Poole in various parts of the world. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Poole spans primarily across the United Kingdom, with notable presence in England, as well as in English-speaking countries influenced by British colonization.

Variants and spellings of the last name Poole

The last name Poole can have various spellings and variations depending on regional dialects and historical influences. Some common variations include Pool, Pohl, Poohl, and Poul. These variations may be a result of different ethnic backgrounds or migration patterns of Poole families throughout history. For example, the spelling Pool could be found more commonly in certain English-speaking regions, while Pohl might be associated with German or Scandinavian origins. Additionally, different pronunciations and accents could have led to spellings like Poohl or Poul. It is important to note that these variations can also be influenced by individual family choices or clerical errors when records were being kept. Despite these differences in spelling, most individuals with these variations still share a common ancestry associated with the surname Poole.

Famous people with the last name Poole

One notable individual with the last name Poole is Brian Poole, an English singer-songwriter, best known as the lead vocalist of the 1960s beat group, Brian Poole and the Tremeloes. The band achieved considerable success in the UK with hits like "Do You Love Me" and "Twist and Shout," becoming an important part of the British Invasion. Another prominent figure is Sir Richard Poole, a British diplomat and high-ranking civil servant who served as the British Ambassador to Jordan from 1996 to 2000. He played a vital role in strengthening the UK-Jordan relationship during his tenure. Additionally, DeForest Poole is an African-American artist renowned for his innovative printmaking techniques and visually engaging prints. Poole's works often explore themes of African-American culture, history, and spirituality, making him a significant contributor to contemporary art. These individuals reflect the diverse fields in which people with the last name Poole have excelled.

Genealogical research on the last name Poole

The surname Poole is of English origin and has various possible meanings and origins. One theory suggests that it is derived from the topographical name "pool," referring to someone who lived near a pool or body of water. Another possibility is that it originated from the occupational name "poolman" or "puddler," denoting someone who worked with pools or puddles of water. Genealogical research on the Poole surname reveals a long and varied history. The name is found in records dating back to medieval times, particularly in the south of England, predominantly in counties such as Dorset, Somerset, and Devon. Some notable individuals with the Poole surname include Sir Richard Poole, a courtier to King Henry VIII, and John Poole, a captain in the American Revolutionary War. Over time, the name Poole has spread to other parts of the English-speaking world, particularly the United States, Australia, and Canada. Today, there are numerous branches and descendants of the Poole family, each with their own unique stories and connections.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Poole"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

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.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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