Surname Dew - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'D'
An Illuminating Journey Through DNA: Decoding the Dew Lineage with iGENEA
Fascinating discoveries, unexpected links, and deepened self-understanding – this is how a simple cheek-swab DNA test at iGENEA redefined what I knew about my ancestry and, in essence, who I am.
N. Dew
read moreDew: What does the surname Dew mean?
The surname Dew primarily originates from England and is derived from the Middle English word "dew(e)", which means "dew". It was initially a nickname for a gentle, soft-spoken, or delicate person, someone who possessed the characteristics of dew, which is gentle and soft. Over time, it evolved to become a surname. Surnames often originated from nicknames, occupations, or geographical locations. Therefore, the surname Dew might also relate to a geographical feature or location associated with dew or a place named Dew. However, the exact origin of all families with the Dew surname may vary, as surnames can develop independently in different regions. Additionally, the spelling of surnames often changed over time, so the surname Dew may also be related to other similar surnames. As with any surname, specific origins might be traced through genealogical research on individual families.
Order DNA origin analysisDew: Where does the name Dew come from?
The surname Dew originates from England, specifically from the Old English personal name Dewi, which was used as a nickname for David. In context of Old English, 'Dewi' signifies "beloved" or "friend", which might have contributed to the adoption of this name during Bible-translation. Also, it is believed to be originated from the Welsh form of David 'Dewi'. It is often found in the English and Welsh origin records in forms like Dew, Dews, Dewes, Dewis etc. In early medieval records, it appears as a first name, but by the 16th century it was being used as a surname. This name became common in countries like America, Canada, and Australia due to the English and Welsh people migrating and settling in these counties. Today, it is most common in the United States. Additionally, it can also be found in the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia.
Variations of the surname Dew
The surname Dew is of Anglo-Saxon origin and is a nickname for someone who was considered as "new" or "fresh" in their job or responsibilities. It derives from the Old English pre 7th Century word "deaw", which has connotations of being fresh or renewed.
Similar surnames originating from the same root include Dewe, Dewes, Dewis, and Dews, all common in England. In Scotland, common variations are Dewar and Dewars. In Wales, you might find the similar surname Dewi.
Spelling shifts due to regional dialects, phonetic spelling by church officials, and changes over time have given rise to different versions of the name. For instance, there are Dutch and German versions of the same name, such as Deuw, Deuwe, and Dewe.
However, it is essential to note that similar-sounding surnames may not always have the same origin. For instance, the French surname Du, which sounds similar to Dew, has a different etymology (it means "from" in French).
Understanding the name's origin and its variants can help in genealogical research to trace family histories and migrations.
Famous people with the name Dew
- Fiona Dew: an Australian comedian and documentary filmmaker
- Coty Dew: a professional American football player
- Josh Dew: an American actor
- Sonny Dew: a retired American race car driver
- Harry Dew: an English cricketer
- Ben Dew: an English footballer
- Charles H. Dew: a former American politician
- Naomi Dew: a voice actor
- Kit Dew: a professional snowboarder and actress
- Christopher Dew: an English actor