NomOrigine Background

Last Name Velie

What is the origin of the last name Velie?

The surname Velie is of English origin, derived from the Old French word "velie" which means "a small sail." It is believed to have been an occupational name for a sail maker or a sailor. The name may have also been an occupational name for a person who worked on or around ships or boats.

origin of the last name Velie

Learn more about the origin of the last name Velie

The meaning and origin of the last name Velie

The surname Velie is of French origin, derived from the Old French word "velu" which means "hairy" or "shaggy". It is believed to have originally been a nickname for someone with a particularly hairy or unkempt appearance. The Velie surname is likely to have been used to distinguish individuals within a community and eventually became a hereditary surname passed down from generation to generation. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the surname may have evolved as it was adopted by different branches of the family or as individuals moved to different regions. Today, individuals with the surname Velie can be found in various parts of the world, though the largest concentrations of people with this surname are still found in regions with French or Anglo-Saxon heritage.

Geographical distribution of the last name Velie

The last name Velie is primarily found in the United States, with the highest concentration in the state of New York. Other significant clusters of individuals with the last name Velie can be found in states such as California, Texas, and Michigan. This surname is relatively uncommon and may also be present in smaller numbers in countries such as Canada and the United Kingdom. The origins of the Velie surname can be traced back to France, where it is believed to have derived from the French word "velu," meaning hairy or shaggy. Over time, individuals with the last name Velie migrated to North America, contributing to the spread and diversity of this surname across different regions. Today, individuals with the last name Velie can be found throughout the United States, particularly in regions with strong historical ties to French immigration.

Variants and spellings of the last name Velie

Velie is commonly spelled as Vele, Veley, Vealie, Veeli, or Vellie. Some less common variations include Velieh, Velies, Velié, Velly, Velii, or Veliu. The last name Velie originates from French or Dutch roots, and may have different spellings due to regional accents or translations. These variations can be found in different historical documents, records, and family trees, reflecting the evolution of the name over time. Despite the different spellings, all variations of Velie typically share the same pronunciation and meaning, connecting individuals with a shared heritage or ancestry. Whether spelled as Velie, Veley, or Vele, the name holds significance and represents a part of one's identity and family history.

Famous people with the last name Velie

One of the most famous individuals with the last name Velie is William C. Velie, founder of the Velie Motors Corporation. He was an influential figure in the early automotive industry, known for producing high-quality vehicles in the early 20th century. Another prominent Velie is Elizabeth Velie, an accomplished artist and sculptor known for her intricate and thought-provoking works. She has gained recognition for her unique style and has exhibited her art in galleries and museums around the world. Additionally, John Velie, a successful entrepreneur and business executive, has made a name for himself in the finance industry. His innovative approach to business and keen insight have earned him a reputation as a leader in his field. The Velie family is known for their diverse talents and contributions to various industries.

Genealogical research on the last name Velie

The Velie surname is of Dutch origin, derived from the name Velaer which means "someone who worked with hides or leather". The first recorded instance of the Velie name dates back to the early 18th century in the Netherlands. The family eventually immigrated to the United States, with records showing Velies settling in New York and Pennsylvania in the 19th century. The Velie family is known for its contributions to the automotive industry, with the Velie Motors Corporation being established in Iowa in the early 1900s. The company produced automobiles and eventually expanded into other industries such as aviation. Today, descendants of the Velie family can be found across the United States, with some still carrying on the family name and legacy in various professions and industries.

Share the origin of your last name with your friends

Search the origin of a family name

Enter the surname you are looking for below: