Last Name Woodrow

The last name "Woodrow" is of English origin. It is a habitational surname derived from the Old English words "wudu" meaning "wood" and "raw" meaning "row" or "line." It could have originally referred to someone who lived near or worked in a row of trees or woodland area. Alternatively, it might have been a locational surname given to individuals who hailed from a place named Woodrow or a similar variation in England. As with many surnames, different branches of the family may have developed the name independently in various regions, resulting in its distribution across multiple areas.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Woodrow

The meaning and origin of the last name Woodrow

The surname Woodrow is of English origin and has its roots in the Anglo-Saxon period. It is derived from the Old English words "wudu" meaning "wood" and "raw" meaning "row" or "clearing," hence denoting someone who lived near a cleared area within a forest. This occupational or locational surname was given to individuals who worked or resided in or near wooded areas. The surname Woodrow is fairly common in the United Kingdom, particularly in England and Scotland. The name Woodrow has had several notable bearers throughout history, including the 28th President of the United States, Thomas Woodrow Wilson. Wilson's family hailed from Paisley, Scotland, and later migrated to the United States. The name Woodrow carries connotations of resilience and strength, symbolizing the connection with nature and the endurance required to make a life within woodland surroundings. Today, the surname Woodrow serves as a reminder of an individual's ancestral ties to wooded landscapes and reflects their heritage and connection to the natural world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Woodrow

The last name Woodrow has a relatively widespread geographical distribution. It is primarily found in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada. In the UK, it is most prevalent in England, particularly in the northern regions such as Yorkshire and Lancashire. The name is quite common in Scotland as well, with concentrations in areas like Glasgow and Edinburgh. In the United States, the majority of individuals with the last name Woodrow can be found in states with significant Scottish or English ancestry, including Pennsylvania, New York, and California. Canada also has a notable population of individuals with the surname, particularly in provinces such as Ontario and Quebec. Additionally, there is a scattered presence of the Woodrow name in other countries with Scottish and English influence, such as Australia and New Zealand.

Variants and spellings of the last name Woodrow

The last name "Woodrow" has a few variations and spellings, which have evolved over time. One common alternative spelling is "Woodroe," where the final "w" is replaced with an "e." This variation maintains the pronunciation of the last name while providing a slightly different spelling. Another possible variation is "Woodro," which eliminates the final "w" and presents a shorter form of the name. In some cases, the last name may also be spelled as "Woodrowe," adding an additional vowel at the end. This spelling alteration might be derived from the intention to add more uniqueness to the last name's appearance without altering its pronunciation. Lastly, "Woodraw" is another conceivable variation, with the replacement of the last two letters, but it is less commonly encountered. Overall, although "Woodrow" is the most recognized spelling, these variations offer a glimpse into the historical development and adaptability of the name.

Famous people with the last name Woodrow

There are no historically well-known individuals with the last name Woodrow, but as an AI language model, I can provide fictional examples or general information about the name. Woodrow, typically used as a first name rather than a last name, gained popularity due to the association with President Woodrow Wilson (1856-1924). Wilson, the 28th President of the United States, was an influential political figure, serving from 1913 to 1921. Renowned for his leadership during World War I and his establishment of the League of Nations, Wilson left a significant legacy. While there may not be any famous individuals specifically with the last name Woodrow, the name itself carries the weight of their association with President Wilson and his historical importance.

Genealogical research on the last name Woodrow

The Woodrow surname is believed to have originated from England in the early 13th century. The name is derived from the old English words "wudu" meaning "wood" and "raw" meaning "row," possibly referring to someone who lived near a row of trees or a wooded area. Historical records indicate that the Woodrow family may have spread to Scotland, particularly to the areas of Angus and Fife, where they became prominent landowners and held titles such as Lairds of Bonnington. In the 18th and 19th centuries, members of the Woodrow family migrated to other parts of the British Isles, including Ireland, and Canada, as well as various parts of the United States. Notable individuals with the Woodrow surname include Thomas Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President of the United States, who played a pivotal role during World War I and the establishment of the League of Nations. Through genealogical research, it is possible to uncover further branches and connections of the Woodrow family tree.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Woodrow"
• 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 April 2025

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