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Meaning of Last Name Davis

Introduction

The last name Davis is a common surname that has been around for centuries. It is of Welsh origin and is derived from the personal name David, which means 'beloved.' The name has been anglicized over time, and there are many variations of the Davis surname, including Davies, Davison, and Davidson. In this article, we will explore the history and meaning of the Davis family name, as well as its variations and notable individuals who bear the name.

Davis Family History

The Davis family history can be traced back to Wales, where the name originated. The first recorded instance of the name was in the 13th century, when a man named David ap Llewelyn was listed in the Welsh records. Over time, the name evolved to Davis, and many Welsh immigrants brought the name to America in the 17th and 18th centuries. Today, the Davis surname is one of the most common in the United States, with over 4 million people bearing the name.

Davis Genealogy

If you are interested in tracing your Davis genealogy, there are many resources available to help you. One of the best places to start is with your own family records, such as birth and death certificates, marriage licenses, and census records. You can also use online genealogy databases, such as Ancestry.com and FamilySearch.org, to search for Davis family members and ancestors. These databases can provide you with valuable information about your family history, including birth and death dates, marriage records, and immigration records.

Davis Surname Origin

The Davis surname origin can be traced back to Wales, where it was derived from the personal name David. The name David was a popular name in Wales, and it was often given to boys in honor of the patron saint of Wales, Saint David. Over time, the name David evolved to Davis, and it became a common surname in Wales and England. Today, the Davis surname is found all over the world, with many variations of the name in different languages and cultures.

Davis Name Meaning

The Davis name meaning is 'beloved,' which is derived from the personal name David. The name David was a popular name in Wales, and it was often given to boys in honor of the patron saint of Wales, Saint David. The name Davis is a patronymic surname, which means that it was derived from the father's name. In this case, the name Davis was derived from the personal name David, which means 'beloved.'

Variations of the Davis Surname

There are many variations of the Davis surname, including Davies, Davison, and Davidson. These variations are often the result of anglicization, which is the process of adapting a name from one language to another. In the case of the Davis surname, many Welsh immigrants to America anglicized their names to Davis, while others chose variations such as Davies or Davison. Today, these variations are still used, and they can be found all over the world.

Notable Individuals with the Davis Surname

There have been many notable individuals with the Davis surname throughout history. Some of the most famous include: 1. Jefferson Davis - President of the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War. 2. Miles Davis - Jazz musician and composer. 3. Angela Davis - Political activist and scholar. 4. Geena Davis - Actress and producer. 5. Kristin Davis - Actress best known for her role in Sex and the City. These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have helped to shape the world we live in today.

Conclusion

The Davis surname is a popular and common surname with a rich history and meaning. It is of Welsh origin and is derived from the personal name David, which means 'beloved.' Over time, the name has evolved to Davis, and there are many variations of the surname, including Davies, Davison, and Davidson. If you are interested in tracing your Davis genealogy, there are many resources available to help you. Whether you are a Davis by birth or by marriage, the Davis name is a proud and meaningful one that has stood the test of time.