Surname Snipe - Meaning and Origin

Snipe: What does the surname Snipe mean?

The last name Snipe is of English origin and traces back to the medieval times. It is derived from the Old Norse word "Snipa," which refers to a species of bird, particularly wading birds, known for their long, slender beaks and their excellent camouflage. This not only reflects the agrarian societies in which these names might have originated but potentially portrays some characteristic features such as alertness, sharp perception, or adaptability. The name could also indicate a location where these birds were commonly found, thus indicating an occupational or topographic surname. Occupationally, it might have been used for bird catchers or hunters. It is also worth noting that the verb "snipe" in English can refer to sharp criticism or insults, but it's not clear that this has any direct connection to the last name Snipe.

Snipe: Where does the name Snipe come from?

The last name Snipe is most commonly found in the United States today. According to the US Census Bureau, there are approximately 7,919 people with the last name Snipe in the US. The states of North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Washington account for the highest concentrations of Snipes nationwide, but the surname is also found in small to mid-size numbers in nearly every state.

The majority of Snipes have European ancestry, though some may trace their roots to other parts of the world. The name “Snipe” is of Anglo-Saxon origin, and it is believed to have achieved significant popularity in 16th- and 17th-century England. During this period, it was common for males of this surname to be blacksmiths, masons, or laborers in rural areas. Some may even trace their roots to Scotland or Ireland.

The surname Snipe can also be tied to the occupation of hunting with a gun. It has been suggested that this particular employment was the likely source of the Snipe surname, though other occupational or locational names are possible.

The last name Snipe does not have much of a presence in other parts of the world. It can be found in pockets of Europe and in small numbers in Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. In Asia, the name is quite rare.

Variations of the surname Snipe

The surname Snipe is derived from Old Norse, meaning “son of Snier” or “son of the snarer”. The surname may be spelled differently, depending on local dialects, but all variations stem from the same origin.

The most common variants of Snipe are Snipes, Schnipe, Schnipes, Sneep, Sneeps, Snep, Sneps, Snipp, Snipps, and Snippe. Alternative spellings of the surname include Snip, Snipes, Snyp, Snypes, Snypp, and Snyppe.

Some of the surnames of the same origin include Spice, Spies, Spic, Spicks, Spicer, and Spycer. These names are derived from the nicknames and given names of persons who resembled or were related to the “sniper”, such as a hunting or battle-related skill.

Other variations of the surname Snipe are Snead, Sneg, Snide, and Snite. Snead is a Scottish and English surname from the nickname for an exceptionally skilful hunter, whereas Snide is derived from the Old Norse “sníð” meaning “nimble” or “sly”. Snite is derived from the Old French “esneye” meaning “watchful” or “shrewd”.

In conclusion, the surname Snipe and its derived forms have multiple variants, spellings, and surnames of the same origin. Though the origins may have changed slightly over time, they all originate from the same source, referring to a person skilled in snaring, hunting or warfare.

Famous people with the name Snipe

• Wesley Snipes: Actor, martial artist, film producer and comedian.
• Flea: Bassist of the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
• John Snipe: Television and film actor.
• Gaston Snipe: Brazilian footballer.
• Wendy Snipes: Casting director and actress.
• Lachele Snipes: Actress.
• Malcolm Snipe: Ice hockey player for the New York Rangers.
• Lanny Snipe: Canadian actor.
• Ralph Snipe: American football coach.
• Skye Snipe: Rapper.
• Steven Snipes: Voice actor, writer and actor.
• Macey Snipe: Assitant director and production assistant.
• John Snipe Jr.: Focus puller.
• Grady Snipes: Aerobatic pilot.
• Cheryl Snipes: Actress.
• Willy Snipes: Fictional character.
• Paul Snipes: Actor and stuntman.
• Kalina Snipes: Actress.
• Ty Snipes: Professional golfer.
• Corrine Snipes: Children's author.

Other surnames

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