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Last Name Sunday

What is the origin of the last name Sunday?

The last name Sunday is likely of English origin. It is derived from the personal name "Sundi", which is a medieval diminutive of the name "Sundae", a variation of "Sunna", an Old English personal name meaning "Sun". Over time, the name Sunday evolved into a surname to denote someone who was born or lived on a Sunday or was named after the sun.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Sunday

The meaning and origin of the last name Sunday

The surname Sunday is believed to have originated from the Old English word "sunnandæg," which means "day of the sun." It is thought to have been a nickname given to someone born or baptized on a Sunday, or someone who had a sunny disposition or was associated with the sun in some way. The name could also have been given to someone who worked on Sundays or owned property that was somehow related to the sun. The surname Sunday could also have been derived from the Middle English nickname "sundey," meaning "sun-day" or "bright day," and was likely later anglicized to Sunday. The surname Sunday is relatively rare and is most commonly found in English-speaking countries such as the United States and England, with variations of the name also found in other European countries.

Geographical distribution of the last name Sunday

The last name Sunday is relatively rare and is primarily found in Nigeria, particularly among the Igbo ethnic group. This surname is derived from the Igbo word "Chukwudiebube," which means "God is glorious." In addition to Nigeria, the name Sunday can also be found in other countries with significant Igbo populations, such as the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. The Sunday surname may also be present in other parts of Africa and among the Igbo diaspora communities around the world. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Sunday is concentrated in Nigeria and its diaspora communities, reflective of its Igbo origins and cultural significance.

Variants and spellings of the last name Sunday

Sunday is a fairly unique last name, but there are a few variations and spellings that can be found. Some common variations include Sundae, Sundy, Sunda, and Sundei. These variations may have originated from different regions or been altered over time through different pronunciations or translations. Additionally, Sunday may also be spelled as Sondai, Sondae, or Sondy. These alternative spellings can often be found in official records, such as census data or immigration documents, where names may have been misspelled or misunderstood by those recording the information. Overall, while Sunday is the most commonly used spelling, there are several variations and spellings of the last name that can be encountered.

Famous people with the last name Sunday

There are no well-known celebrities with the last name Sunday. However, there is a Nigerian-born pastor and televangelist named Pastor Sunday Adelaja who has gained international recognition for his teachings on leadership, success, and personal development. Adelaja is the founder and senior pastor of the Embassy of the Blessed Kingdom of God for All Nations, a megachurch with branches in Ukraine, Europe, and Africa. He has authored several books and has spoken at various conferences and seminars around the world. While not a traditional celebrity in the entertainment industry, Pastor Sunday Adelaja has made a significant impact in the religious and motivational speaking communities, with his message of empowering individuals to achieve their full potential.

Genealogical research on the last name Sunday

The last name Sunday is of English origin and is believed to be occupational in nature, deriving from the Old English word "sunnandæg," meaning Sunday. It is possible that the surname Sunday was given to individuals who held the occupation of a Sunday worker, such as a merchant or trader who conducted business on Sundays. The surname Sunday can also be traced back to the Middle Ages in England, where individuals often adopted surnames based on their occupation, location, or personal characteristics. Over time, the surname Sunday has likely been passed down through generations, with variations in spelling and pronunciation. Today, individuals with the last name Sunday can be found in various parts of the world, primarily in English-speaking countries where the surname has been carried through immigration and migration.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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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