Last Name Wilde

The surname "Wilde" has Germanic origins and is derived from the Old High German word "wild," which means "wild animal" or "wild beast." It was initially used as a nickname for someone who behaved in an uncontrollable or untamed manner, resembling a wild animal. Over time, it became a hereditary surname and spread to other European countries, including England, Scotland, and Ireland, due to migrations and conquests. The most famous bearer of this name is Oscar Fingal O'Flahertie Wills Wilde, an Irish writer and poet known for his wit, satire, and unconventionality in the late Victorian era.

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The meaning and origin of the last name Wilde

The surname Wilde originates from Old English and Old Norse roots, with variations such as Wild, Wylde, and Wilder. It is derived from the Old English 'wildeor' and the Old Norse 'vildr', both meaning "wild beast" or "wild animal". The name was often given to someone considered wild, unmanageable, or fierce in personality, but could also have been a topographical name for someone who lived on rough, wild ground. Over time, the spelling has evolved and the name has become widespread across Europe. In English-speaking countries, the surname Wilde is relatively common, with notable bearers including Oscar Fingal O'Flahertie Wills Wilde, an Irish playwright and poet known for his wit, his controversial personal life, and his influential works in literature.

Geographical distribution of the last name Wilde

The surname Wilde is predominantly of Anglo-Saxon origin and is most commonly found in English-speaking countries, particularly Ireland, England, Scotland, Wales, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and the United States. In Ireland, it's frequently associated with County Limerick due to the presence of the Norman de Burgh family who used the spelling "Wilde" after the 13th century. In England and Scotland, it appears to have multiple origins, including Norfolk, Yorkshire, and the Borders region. The distribution pattern suggests a historical migration from the British Isles to other English-speaking countries over time.

Variants and spellings of the last name Wilde

The surname Wilde has several variants and spellings, including Wild, Wylde, Wyle, Wildey, and Wilday. These variations are primarily due to differences in transcription and spelling conventions over time. In some cases, the 'i' before 'e' may have been dropped or added depending on the scribe or region. The name Wilde is believed to be of Old English origin, derived from the word "wildeor," meaning "wild beast" or "wild one." Other possible origins include Old Norse "vildr," meaning "untamed" or "savage," and the Middle English "wilde," which could mean either "wild" or a personal name. Regardless of the origin, the name Wilde has been associated with notable figures such as Oscar Fingal O'Flahertie Wills Wilde, an Irish playwright, poet, and philosopher.

Famous people with the last name Wilde

Oscar Fingal O'Flahertie Wills Wilde, an Anglo-Irish writer and wit, is perhaps the most renowned individual bearing the surname Wilde. Known for his works such as "The Picture of Dorian Gray" and "De Profundis," Wilde was a proponent of aestheticism and had a profound influence on literature in the late Victorian era. He faced significant backlash after being convicted of gross indecency and served two years in prison, which contributed to his early death at age 46. Another famous individual with the surname Wilde is Marlon Brando Jr., an American actor who was one of Hollywood's most influential figures during the mid-20th century. He won two Academy Awards for his performances in "On the Waterfront" (1954) and "The Godfather" (1972). His career spanned over six decades, and he was known for his versatile roles and progressive political views.

Genealogical research on the last name Wilde

The surname Wilde, of Old English origin, is derived from the word "wildeor" meaning "wild animal." It is an Anglo-Saxon occupational name for a huntsman or a person who kept wild animals in a menagerie. Notable individuals bearing this name include Oscar Fingal O'Flahertie Wills Wilde (1854–1900), an Irish playwright, poet and wit; and his son Vyvyan Holland (1867–1939), a British author and film producer. Other significant figures include Diane Wilde (born 1952), a Canadian-American astrophysicist; and Gaius Julius Caesar V index.php?title=Gaius_Julius_Caesar&action=edit&redlink=1 Wilde (fl. 48 BCE), rumored to be the illegitimate son of Julius Caesar, who later became a citizen and senator of Rome. The Wilde lineage has a rich history, spanning across various professions and geographies over multiple centuries.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Wilde"
• 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 June 2025

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