Surname Bailey - Meaning and Origin

Understanding My Roots: The iGENEA DNA Test and Its Impact on My Bailey Surname Perceptions and Identity

Undertaking an iGENEA DNA test was an enlightening journey of self-discovery, deepening my respect for my lineage and my own identity. The revelations about my ancestors' geographical origins, potential roles in society, and fascinating connections to the Vikings have profoundly influenced how I perceive my Bailey surname and family identity.

M. Bailey

Bailey: What does the surname Bailey mean?

The origin of the surname Bailey is believed to derive from the Old French term "baillis" which means "steward" or "official". This term was used to denote a person who held a position of authority or responsibility such as a guardian or an administrator.

The history of the Bailey surname in England dates back to the 12th century and the name has been associated with prominent figures throughout the centuries.

From an occupational standpoint, Baileys were, for the most part, stewards of both clergy and royalty and the name was eventually adopted by individuals such as merchants and artisans who fulfilled secular duties as part of their daily lives.

Today, Baileys are concentrated around the world, and some of the other variations of the name include Bailie, Baylie, Bayley, Bayly and Bale. Those who bear the Bailey surname are often associated with powerful traits such as leadership, intelligence and decisiveness. Furthermore, many individuals with the Bailey name are strong-minded and have an excellent sense of order and justice.

Regardless of the origin story, the Bailey surname is deeply rooted in history and has been passed from one generation to the next. From its earliest days, the name has been a representation of responsibility and power and continues to be an important part of the family legacy.

Bailey: Where does the name Bailey come from?

The last name Bailey is a popular English-language surname, which is derived from the Middle English male personal name “Baili”. It is commonly found in English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

In the United States, the Bailey surname is found mainly in the southern states, particularly in Texas. There are almost 500,000 people with the Bailey surname living in the US today, making it the 82nd most common last name.

In England, the Bailey name is more widely distributed. It is the 50th most popular surname, with almost 200,000 people having the name. It is particularly popular in the northern counties of Yorkshire and Lancashire.

In Wales, the Bailey name is also popular, especially in Merthyr Tydfil. The name also appears in Scotland, particularly in Edinburgh and Glasgow, and Northern Ireland.

Overall, the Bailey name is very common in many English-speaking countries and with over 650,000 people bearing it around the world, it's clear that it's popularity isn't going away any time soon.

Variations of the surname Bailey

The surname Bailey has many variants and spellings as well as other related surnames. Bailey itself is derived from the Old French baillis, originally baiulivus, which means 'tenant-in-chief' or 'steward'.

Bailie is a common alternate spelling of Bailey, and it was especially popular in Scotland. Baillie is a variation as well. The spelling Bailliff was also used, which referred more to a certain position or rank more than being a surname. Braley, Bayley, and Bailley (with one “l”) are other variations of the name.

Bailes is a variant of Bailey that was popular in England and Ireland. Baley is a variation of the original form as is the surname Bayley. Variations of the name Bailey can also be found in Germany and Holland, such as Baehle and Baehler.

In some cases, the surnames Bayles and Beales were used. The former is a common variation of Bailey that is primarily found in Ireland, while Beales is a variation found in Scotland.

Finally, variants of the name include Bailor, Balie, Baily, Bailes, Bailley, Baylie, and Bayly. The surnames Bailee, Baylee, Bayle, Bayles, Baly, and Beal are other variants of the surname.

Famous people with the name Bailey

• Florence Bailey: an American ornithologist and writer who specialized in the avifauna of the Arizona-New Mexico region.
• Pearl Bailey: a singer and entertainer in the United States.
• F. Lee Bailey: an American attorney who represented some well-known federal cases.
• Haskel Bailey: an American jazz and fusion drummer.
• Joe Bailey: known as "The Voice of God," he was a pioneering black Christian radio broadcaster.
• Ricky Bailey: an American basketball player who was an American Basketball Association (ABA) All-Star.
• Marvin Bailey: an actor who appeared in several films and television series, including the Disney movie Toy Story 2.
• Thomas Bailey: a Canadian author best known for his works of historical fiction set in Newfoundland and Labrador.
• Ruth Bailey: a Scottish television presenter and actress from Falkirk.
• Omar Bailey: an American paralympic wheelchair racer.
• David Bailey: an English photographer and film director who was a major contributor to the "Swinging London" of the 1960s.
• Brigitte Bailey: an American fashion designer who founded "Brigitte Bailey" design studio.
• Pearl Bailey Jr.: an American television, film, and stage actor.
• Paul Bailey: an English novelist, short story writer, and broadcaster.
• Roy Bailey: an English folk musician who sang traditional songs in a folk-blues style.
• Christopher Bailey: an English business executive who served as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Burberry.
• Brian Bailey: an English actor who appeared in several television series and made-for-TV films in the 1970s.
• Belle Bailey: a professional dancer who appeared in films and on television in the 1930s.
• Ezra Bailey: an American painter and sculptor from St. Louis, Missouri.
• Leslie Bailey: an American jazz singer from New Orleans, Louisiana.

Other surnames

Bailer