Summary

The surname WHITNEY is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word 'hwit', meaning 'white'. It was originally a descriptive name given to someone with fair or light-colored hair or complexion. The surname has a rich history and is associated with notable individuals and families throughout England and its former colonies.
There are
35118
Whitneys in the USA
Whitney is the
994th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Whitney

EliWhitney

Eli Whitney was an American inventor and engineer best known for inventing the cotton gin, a revolutionary device that greatly increased the efficiency of cotton production.

WhitneyHouston

Whitney Houston was an American singer, actress, and producer who is widely regarded as one of the greatest vocalists of all time. She achieved immense success in the music industry with hits like 'I Will Always Love You' and 'I Wanna Dance with Somebody.'

WhitneyYoung

Whitney Young was an American civil rights leader and executive director of the National Urban League. He played a key role in advancing civil rights and economic equality for African Americans during the 1960s.

WhitneyCummings

Whitney Cummings is an American comedian, actress, and producer known for her stand-up comedy specials and co-creating the sitcom '2 Broke Girls.' She has also appeared in various television shows and films.

WhitneyBlake

Whitney Blake was an American actress and producer, best known for her role as Dorothy Baxter in the sitcom 'Hazel.' She also had a successful career as a television writer and producer.

WhitneyBellows

Whitney Bellows is an American artist and illustrator known for her vibrant and whimsical illustrations that often feature animals and nature. Her work has been featured in various publications and exhibitions.

WhitneyTilson

Whitney Tilson is an American investor, author, and former hedge fund manager. He is known for his expertise in the field of value investing and has written several books on the topic.

WhitneyAlford

Whitney Alford is an American makeup artist and businesswoman. She gained fame for her relationship with rapper Kendrick Lamar, whom she married in 2015.

WhitneyScharer

Whitney Scharer is an American author known for her debut novel 'The Age of Light,' which tells the story of photographer Lee Miller and her relationship with artist Man Ray.

WhitneyWay

Whitney Way Thore is an American reality television personality and body positivity activist. She rose to fame through the TLC reality series 'My Big Fat Fabulous Life,' which documents her life as a plus-size woman.

Whitney Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Whitney' is of English origin and is derived from a place name meaning 'white island' or 'white water meadow.' It is derived from the Old English words 'hwit' (white) and 'eg' or 'ey' (island or water meadow). The name likely originally referred to someone who lived near a prominent white island or water meadow.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Whitney' is most commonly found in the United States, particularly in the states of Massachusetts, California, and New York. It also has a significant presence in the United Kingdom and Canada.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Whitney' include 'Whitnie,' 'Wythney,' and 'Whytney.'
Migration and ImmigrationThe name 'Whitney' has been carried by immigrants to various countries, particularly during periods of British colonization and emigration. Many Whitneys migrated to the United States in the 17th and 18th centuries, seeking new opportunities and a fresh start.