Origin & Meaning of the Mosley Surname
What does the last name Mosley mean?
The surname Mosley 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 47,963 bearers in the 2010 US Census, Mosley ranks as the #730 most common surname in the United States.
Where does the surname Mosley come from?
The Mosley 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 Mosley name far beyond its original homeland.
Language of Origin
The linguistic roots of Mosley 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 | Mosley |
|---|---|
| Meaning | From a meadow or clearing |
| Origin | English |
| Language | Old English |
| US Rank (2010) | #730 |
| US Count (2010) | 47,963 |
| Per 100K People | 16.26 |
| First Letter | M |
Ethnic Distribution of Mosley
According to the US Census, the Mosley surname is distributed across the following ethnic groups. This data reflects self-reported ethnicity among 47,963 Americans with the Mosley last name.
| Ethnicity | Percentage |
|---|---|
| White | 40.49% |
| Black | 53.16% |
| Hispanic | 2.27% |
| Asian/Pacific Islander | 0.33% |
| Native American | 0.61% |
| Two or More Races | 3.15% |
Popularity of Mosley Over Time
Comparing US Census data from 2000 and 2010 shows how the Mosley surname has changed in prevalence.
The number of Americans with the Mosley surname increased by 3,265 between 2000 and 2010.
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Other English Surnames
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Frequently Asked Questions About Mosley
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