NomOrigine Background

Last Name Weld

What is the origin of the last name Weld?

The last name Weld is of English origin, derived from the Old English word "weald," meaning "forest" or "wooded area." This surname likely originated as a topographic or occupational name for someone who lived or worked near a forest.

origin of the last name Weld

Learn more about the origin of the last name Weld

The meaning and origin of the last name Weld

The surname Weld is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word "weald," meaning to rule or govern. It is believed to have originally been a nickname for someone with a dominant or authoritative personality. The name has been recorded in various forms throughout history, including Welda, Welde, and Wold. The Weld family can trace their lineage back to Sir Humphrey Weld, who was a prominent figure in the 17th century. Over time, the surname Weld spread to other English-speaking countries through migration, particularly to the United States and Australia. Today, the surname Weld can be found in various regions around the world, with individuals continuing to uphold the legacy of their ancestors.

Geographical distribution of the last name Weld

The last name Weld is most commonly found in the United States, particularly in the New England region. There is a notable presence of individuals with this surname in states such as Massachusetts, New York, and California. The name Weld can also be found in the United Kingdom, particularly in areas such as London and Yorkshire. In addition, there are smaller populations of individuals with the last name Weld in countries such as Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Weld is primarily concentrated in English-speaking countries, with the highest concentrations in the United States and the United Kingdom.

Variants and spellings of the last name Weld

The last name Weld can be spelled as Well, Welt, Welled, Wald, Wold, Weald, Wield, and Waeld. These variations may be due to different pronunciations, regional dialects, or historical changes in spelling conventions. The surname Weld is of English origin, dating back to medieval times. It is believed to have derived from the Old English word "weald" meaning "forest" or "woodland". Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the name may have evolved, leading to the various different forms seen today.

Famous people with the last name Weld

Some of the most famous people with the last name Weld include American actress Tuesday Weld, known for her performances in films such as "Looking for Mr. Goodbar" and "Pretty Poison." Another notable figure is American politician William Weld, who served as the Governor of Massachusetts from 1991 to 1997 and later ran for Vice President as the Libertarian Party nominee in 2016. Additionally, English musician and producer Joanne Catherall, best known as a member of the electronic band The Human League, has also brought prominence to the Weld surname in the entertainment industry. These individuals have each made significant contributions to their respective fields, solidifying the Weld name as one associated with talent and success.

Genealogical research on the last name Weld

The surname Weld is of Anglo-Saxon origin, deriving from the Old English word "weald", meaning "forest". The Weld family can trace its roots back to early medieval England, with records showing members residing in various counties such as Dorset, Essex, and Warwickshire. The name first appeared in written records in the Domesday Book of 1086, indicating the family's long-standing presence in the country. Over the centuries, the Weld family has been actively involved in politics, military service, and land ownership, with notable figures such as Humphrey Weld, who served as a Member of Parliament in the 17th century. Today, descendants of the Weld family can be found around the world, with a strong presence in the United States and Australia due to migration and settlement patterns in the 19th and 20th centuries.

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: