Summary

The surname Willoughby is of English origin, derived from the Old English personal name Wilia or Willa, combined with the word 'by', meaning settlement or village. It is an ancient surname with a rich history, dating back to medieval times.
There are
16111
Willoughbys in the USA
Willoughby is the
2257th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Willoughby

HughWilloughby

Hugh Willoughby was an English explorer who led an ill-fated expedition in search of the Northeast Passage to Asia in 1553. He and his crew perished in the Arctic.

EdwardWilloughby

Edward Willoughby was an English politician and military officer during the English Civil War. He supported the Royalist cause and fought in several battles.

AnnieWilloughby

Annie Willoughby was an American silent film actress who appeared in several films in the early 20th century.

FrederickWilloughby

Frederick Willoughby was an American football player who played as a defensive tackle for the San Francisco 49ers in the 1960s.

FrancisWilloughby

Francis Willoughby was an English naturalist and politician who made significant contributions to the study of plants, animals, and minerals.

EmmaWilloughby

Emma Willoughby is a British fashion designer known for her elegant and sophisticated designs. She has dressed several celebrities for red carpet events.

RichardWilloughby

Richard Willoughby was an English architect who designed several notable buildings in the 19th century, including churches and stately homes.

IsabellaWilloughby

Isabella Willoughby was a Scottish poet and writer known for her lyrical poems and short stories inspired by her rural upbringing.

CharlesWilloughby

Charles Willoughby was an American military officer who served as an intelligence officer during World War II and the Korean War.

MargaretWilloughby

Margaret Willoughby was an English noblewoman and courtier who served as a lady-in-waiting to Queen Elizabeth I.

Willoughby Genealogy

OriginsThe name 'Willoughby' is of English origin. It is derived from a place name meaning 'willow farm' or 'farm near the willows.'
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Willoughby' is most commonly found in the United Kingdom, particularly in the English counties of Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, and Norfolk.
VariationsVariations of the name 'Willoughby' include 'Willoughbie,' 'Wilbie,' 'Willbee,' 'Willbowie,' 'Willowby,' 'Willeby,' 'Wilby,' 'Willabee,' 'Willaby,' and 'Willoughbee.'
Migration and ImmigrationThere is limited information available on the migration and immigration of people with the surname 'Willoughby.' However, like many English surnames, individuals with the name may have migrated to various English-speaking countries, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, during periods of colonization and immigration.