Origin & Meaning of the Woolley Surname
What does the last name Woolley mean?
The surname Woolley 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 6,749 bearers in the 2010 US Census, Woolley ranks as the #5,176 most common surname in the United States.
Where does the surname Woolley come from?
The Woolley 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 Woolley name far beyond its original homeland.
Language of Origin
The linguistic roots of Woolley 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 | Woolley |
|---|---|
| Meaning | From a meadow or clearing |
| Origin | English |
| Language | Old English |
| US Rank (2010) | #5,176 |
| US Count (2010) | 6,749 |
| Per 100K People | 2.29 |
| First Letter | W |
Ethnic Distribution of Woolley
According to the US Census, the Woolley surname is distributed across the following ethnic groups. This data reflects self-reported ethnicity among 6,749 Americans with the Woolley last name.
| Ethnicity | Percentage |
|---|---|
| White | 90.49% |
| Black | 3.75% |
| Hispanic | 2.4% |
| Asian/Pacific Islander | 0.61% |
| Native American | 0.49% |
| Two or More Races | 2.27% |
Popularity of Woolley Over Time
Comparing US Census data from 2000 and 2010 shows how the Woolley surname has changed in prevalence.
The number of Americans with the Woolley surname increased by 151 between 2000 and 2010.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Woolley
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