Origin & Meaning of the Godley Surname
What does the last name Godley mean?
The surname Godley carries the meaning "From a meadow or clearing." It is derived from the Old English language and has been passed down through generations, reflecting the occupations, locations, or characteristics of early bearers of the name. With 2,515 bearers in the 2010 US Census, Godley ranks as the #12,362 most common surname in the United States.
Where does the surname Godley come from?
The Godley surname has its roots in English heritage. Names of English origin often reflect the cultural, linguistic, and historical traditions of the communities where they first appeared. Over centuries, migration and cultural exchange have spread the Godley name far beyond its original homeland.
Language of Origin
The linguistic roots of Godley trace back to Old English. Understanding the original language helps decode the meaning and evolution of the name from its earliest recorded forms to the modern spelling used today.
Quick Facts
| Surname | Godley |
|---|---|
| Meaning | From a meadow or clearing |
| Origin | English |
| Language | Old English |
| US Rank (2010) | #12,362 |
| US Count (2010) | 2,515 |
| Per 100K People | 0.85 |
| First Letter | G |
Ethnic Distribution of Godley
According to the US Census, the Godley surname is distributed across the following ethnic groups. This data reflects self-reported ethnicity among 2,515 Americans with the Godley last name.
| Ethnicity | Percentage |
|---|---|
| White | 63.3% |
| Black | 32.09% |
| Hispanic | 2.23% |
| Two or More Races | 1.95% |
Popularity of Godley Over Time
Comparing US Census data from 2000 and 2010 shows how the Godley surname has changed in prevalence.
The number of Americans with the Godley surname increased by 20 between 2000 and 2010.
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Other English Surnames
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Frequently Asked Questions About Godley
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