Surname Outlaw - Meaning and Origin
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The Outlaw Surname: Celtic Roots and Viking Connections Uncovered Through iGENEA DNA Test
Unraveling the roots of a family lineage can be a humbling experience. It blankets us with a sense of connective heritage that unfortunately, books and verbal anecdotes often blur. Discovering the cultural and historic magnitude of my surname, Outlaw, via the iGENEA DNA test has unexpectedly submersed me into a deep sea of personal histories, stretching from the ancient Celtic tribes of Scotland to the mighty Vikings of Scandinavia.
D. Outlaw
read moreOutlaw: What does the surname Outlaw mean?
The last name Outlaw is of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English "utlag" which translates to "outlaw." This term was used for individuals who were literally declared outside the protection of the law for committing certain crimes. It's likely that this surname originally emerged as a nickname for someone who had played the part of an outlaw in a pageant or similar community event, or for someone who had engaged in illicit activities. It may also have been utilized ironically for someone known for their law-abiding nature. Like many surnames that began as nicknames, it does not necessarily indicate any historical criminal behavior of the person's ancestors. The early recordings of this name date back to the 13th and 14th centuries in England. The surname was brought to America by early settlers and has been in use since at least the 17th century.
Order DNA origin analysisOutlaw: Where does the name Outlaw come from?
The surname Outlaw has origins in medieval England. It is derived from the Old English term "utlag", a law term that designated someone who was outside the protection of the law, often used for someone who had been banished or declared an outlaw. This surname could also have been a nickname or occupational name for a person who had rebel characteristics or a non-conformist behavior.
It is important to note that the surname does not necessarily indicate criminal behavior of the ancestors but may refer to someone who was involved in legal profession or legal disputes.
Today, the surname Outlaw is more prevalent in the United States, more specifically in the state of North Carolina according to the U.S. Census Bureau. However, it can also be found in smaller numbers in countries like England, Wales and Australia. Despite its prevalence in these regions, it isn't considered a common surname.
Variations of the surname Outlaw
The surname Outlaw is considered a unique and rare surname with less variation compared to other surnames. The occurrence of this surname was in medieval England, and it was an occupational or nickname surname referring to people living on the outskirts of society or living outside the law.
Orthographically, there is not much variation in spelling as the surname is relatively simple. However, some variant spellings could occur due to regional accents and pronunciation differences. Variations might include Outlow, Outlar, Uttlaw, Utlaw, and Otlaw.
In terms of surnames of the same origin, English surnames like Outridge, Ousley, or Outten could possibly share similar origins given their linguistic similarity. However, they're not directly synonymous surnames.
Please note that genealogical research and DNA testing are often required to confirm shared origins among surnames, due to the complex nature of family histories. The same spelling does not always mean the same family, nor does different spelling always imply different families. It's always best to research individual family histories to find concrete connections.
Famous people with the name Outlaw
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