Summary

The surname Wakefield is of English origin and dates back to the medieval times. It is derived from the combination of two words: 'wake', meaning vigil or watch, and 'field', referring to an open area of land. The name likely originated from a place name, indicating someone who lived near a field where a nighttime watch or vigil was kept. Over time, the surname Wakefield spread to various parts of the world through migration and colonization.
There are
14587
Wakefields in the USA
Wakefield is the
2472nd
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Wakefield

TimWakefield

Tim Wakefield is a former professional baseball player who spent the majority of his career with the Boston Red Sox. He was known for his knuckleball pitch and won two World Series championships with the team.

NikolausPevsner

Nikolaus Pevsner was a German-born British art historian and architectural historian. He is best known for his 46-volume series 'The Buildings of England,' which provides comprehensive architectural guides for each county in England.

BenjaminWakefield

Benjamin Wakefield was an English explorer and trader who played a key role in the early contacts between Japan and the Western world in the 19th century. He was known for his efforts in opening up trade between the two nations.

LucyWakefield

Lucy Wakefield is a British actress known for her role as Miss Havisham in the 2012 film adaptation of Charles Dickens' novel 'Great Expectations.' She has also appeared in various stage productions and television shows.

DavidWakefield

David Wakefield is a British photographer known for his captivating landscape and nature photographs. His work is characterized by its attention to detail and ability to evoke a sense of tranquility.

CharlotteWakefield

Charlotte Wakefield is a British actress and singer who has appeared in various West End musicals, including 'Spring Awakening' and 'The Sound of Music.' She has been praised for her powerful vocal performances.

EdwardGibbon

Edward Gibbon Wakefield was a British colonial administrator and politician who played a significant role in the settlement of New Zealand and the establishment of the Wakefield family as a prominent force in New Zealand politics.

JanetClare

Janet Clare Wakefield is a British author and poet known for her lyrical and introspective writing style. She has published several collections of poetry and has been recognized for her contributions to contemporary literature.

StuartWakefield

Stuart Wakefield is a Canadian musician and songwriter known for his work with the indie rock band The Dears. He has been praised for his songwriting ability and distinctive vocal style.

ElizabethWakefield

Elizabeth Wakefield is a fictional character in the popular young adult book series 'Sweet Valley High.' She is portrayed as smart, responsible, and empathetic, often serving as the voice of reason within the series.

Wakefield Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Wakefield' is of English origin and is derived from a combination of the Old English words 'wacu' meaning 'watchful' and 'feld' meaning 'field.' It likely originated as a locational surname, referring to someone who lived near a field where a watch or lookout was kept.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Wakefield' is most commonly found in the United Kingdom, particularly in Yorkshire where the city of Wakefield is located. It is also found in other English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Wakefield' include 'Wakefeeld' and 'Wackfeild.'
Migration and ImmigrationPeople with the surname 'Wakefield' have migrated and immigrated to various countries, particularly during periods of British colonization and settlement. Many Wakefields can be found in former British colonies such as Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.