Last Name Scofield

The last name Scofield is of English origin. It is derived from a place name, specifically from the village of Scholefield in the West Riding of Yorkshire, England. The name itself is believed to be a combination of the Old English words "sceol" meaning "shelter" or "shed" and "feld" meaning "open country" or "field." Over time, the spelling of the surname has varied and evolved, with variations including Scolefield, Schoefield, and Schofield. The Scofield name is most commonly associated with English, Scottish, and Irish ancestry.

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The meaning and origin of the last name Scofield

The surname Scofield is of English origin and is derived from the Old English words "sceap" and "feld," meaning "sheep" and "field" respectively. It is an occupational surname, often given to those who worked as shepherds or lived near pastures where sheep were raised. The name Scofield can be found across various regions in England, with notable concentrations in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire. Over time, variations of the surname have emerged, including Scholfield, Schofield, and Scholefield. The Scofield family name has also gained prominence outside of England, particularly in the United States, where it was brought by early immigrants. Notable individuals with the surname Scofield include the American actor Paul Scofield, renowned for his stage and screen performances, and the biblical scholar C. I. Scofield, known for his annotated reference Bible.

Geographical distribution of the last name Scofield

The last name Scofield has a relatively concentrated geographical distribution. It originated from England, specifically from the county of Yorkshire. Over time, individuals with the surname Scofield migrated to various parts of the world, resulting in a dispersed but noticeable presence in certain regions. In the United States, the surname can be found predominantly in the northeast, particularly in states such as New York, Massachusetts, and Connecticut. In England, there are still Scofields predominantly in Yorkshire, while smaller populations exist in other parts of the country. Additionally, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand also have some individuals with the last name Scofield, likely due to migration patterns. However, compared to some other surnames, the geographical distribution of Scofield remains relatively limited, with significant concentrations in specific areas rather than being widespread across multiple regions.

Variants and spellings of the last name Scofield

The last name Scofield has seen several variations and spellings over time. One common variation is Schofield, where the "c" in Scofield is replaced with an "h." This spelling alteration may have been influenced by pronunciation or regional dialects. Another possible spelling is Scholefield, which incorporates the "e" in place of the second "o." This variant may have emerged from an attempt to simplify or Anglicize the name. Furthermore, additional variations include Scowfield and Skofield, where the "e" in Scofield is replaced with an "o" or "k," respectively. These alternative spellings might have arisen due to handwriting differences, errors in record-keeping, or regional accents smoothing out certain sounds. It is crucial to note that such variations and spellings are typical in surnames, as name changes can occur through generations due to migration, pronunciation, and personal preferences. These diverse forms demonstrate the fluidity of language and the evolution of surnames throughout history.

Famous people with the last name Scofield

Famous people with the last name Scofield include: 1. Paul Scofield (1922-2008): A renowned English actor, Scofield is widely regarded as one of the greatest stage actors of his generation. He achieved global recognition for his portrayal of Sir Thomas More in the play "A Man for All Seasons" both on stage and in the subsequent film adaptation, winning an Academy Award for Best Actor. 2. Wentworth Miller: A popular American actor and screenwriter, Miller gained fame for his role as Michael Scofield in the television series "Prison Break." His portrayal of the highly intelligent and compassionate character garnered critical acclaim, and he quickly became a fan favorite. These individuals have significantly contributed to their respective fields and left a lasting impact on audiences and peers alike. Whether it be through their powerful performances or compelling on-screen presence, the Scofields have made their mark in the world of acting.

Genealogical research on the last name Scofield

The last name Scofield has roots in medieval England, specifically in the county of Yorkshire. The surname Scofield is believed to have originated from the Old Norse personal name Skógarafjǫlr, which means "woodcutter" or "one who lives near a wooded slope." Over time, the name evolved into various forms including Scoffeld, Scoffyld, and eventually Scofield. The Scofield family was prominent in the region during the Middle Ages and their influence spread to other parts of England. In the 17th and 18th centuries, several members of the Scofield family migrated to the United States, adding to the surname's presence in America. Notably, the Scofield family line can be traced to Cyrus Ingerson Scofield, a Protestant theologian and writer who played a significant role in the development of dispensationalism. Today, the surname Scofield continues to be found predominantly in the United States and is associated with individuals of English descent.

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