HOME > Wood Last Name Origin
Introduction
The Wood last name is a common surname that has a rich history and is derived from various sources. It is a topographic name for someone who lived in or near a wood or a metonymic occupational name for a woodcutter or forester. The name is also derived from the Old English word 'wudu,' which means wood or forest. In this article, we will explore the origin of the Wood surname and its significance in genealogy and family history.
Early Origins of the Wood Surname
The Wood surname has its roots in England, where it was first recorded in the 11th century. The earliest known bearer of the name was a man named Aelfric le Wode, who was listed in the Domesday Book of 1086. The name was also recorded as 'de la Wode' and 'atte Wode,' which means 'of the wood' or 'at the wood.' These variations of the name were used to describe someone who lived in or near a wood.
Occupational Origins of the Wood Surname
The Wood surname also has occupational origins. It was used to describe someone who worked as a woodcutter or forester. In medieval England, the woodcutter was an important figure in society, as wood was a valuable resource used for fuel, building, and other purposes. The forester was responsible for managing the forest and ensuring that it was not overexploited. The Wood surname was therefore a common name among those who worked in the forest industry.
Geographical Origins of the Wood Surname
The Wood surname also has geographical origins. It was used to describe someone who lived in a place with the word 'wood' in its name. For example, someone who lived in Woodbridge or Woodford might have been called John Wood. The name was also used to describe someone who lived near a wood or forest, even if the place did not have 'wood' in its name.
Famous People with the Wood Last Name
The Wood last name has been borne by many famous people throughout history. Some of the most notable include:
1. Natalie Wood
Natalie Wood was an American actress who starred in films such as 'Rebel Without a Cause' and 'West Side Story.' She was born Natalia Nikolaevna Zakharenko in San Francisco, California, in 1938. Her parents were Russian immigrants who changed their name to Wood when they arrived in the United States.
2. Elijah Wood
Elijah Wood is an American actor who is best known for his role as Frodo Baggins in the 'Lord of the Rings' trilogy. He was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, in 1981. His father's surname was originally 'Krishnamurti,' but he changed it to 'Wood' when he married Elijah's mother.
3. Tiger Woods
Tiger Woods is an American professional golfer who is considered one of the greatest golfers of all time. He was born Eldrick Tont Woods in Cypress, California, in 1975. His father's surname was 'Woods,' and he gave Eldrick the nickname 'Tiger' in honor of a Vietnamese soldier who saved his life during the Vietnam War.
4. Edward Wood, 1st Earl of Halifax
Edward Wood, 1st Earl of Halifax, was a British statesman who served as the Viceroy of India and the Foreign Secretary during World War II. He was born in Powderham Castle, Devon, England, in 1881. His family had been using the surname 'Wood' for several generations.
5. Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones are an English rock band that was formed in London in 1962. The band members include Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts, and Ronnie Wood. Ronnie Wood joined the band in 1975 and has been a member ever since. His birth name was Ronald David Wood, but he changed it to Ronnie Wood when he joined the band.
Significance of the Wood Surname in Genealogy and Family History
The Wood surname is a popular name in genealogy and family history. Many people with the last name Wood are interested in tracing their family roots and learning more about their ancestors. The Wood surname can provide valuable clues about a person's family history, as it can indicate where their ancestors lived and what they did for a living.
Researching Your Wood Ancestry
If you are interested in researching your Wood ancestry, there are several resources available to help you. One of the best places to start is with online genealogy databases, such as Ancestry.com or FamilySearch.org. These databases contain millions of records, including census records, birth and death certificates, and immigration records, that can help you trace your family history.
Conclusion
The Wood last name has a rich history and is derived from various sources. It is a topographic name for someone who lived in or near a wood or a metonymic occupational name for a woodcutter or forester. The name is also derived from the Old English word 'wudu,' which means wood or forest. The Wood surname has been borne by many famous people throughout history, including Natalie Wood, Elijah Wood, and Tiger Woods. If you are interested in researching your Wood ancestry, there are several resources available to help you trace your family history.
