Surname Lightsey - Meaning and Origin
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Lightsey: What does the surname Lightsey mean?
The last name Lightsey is of English origin. It is derived from the Middle English term ‘lihte’, which means ‘light’ or ‘bright’. It is believed to be of locational origin, possibly for someone who lived near a lighthouse or a beacon. It may also have been an occupational name, belonging to someone who worked with lights or lamps.
Historically, Lightsey is believed to have been recorded as early as the 13th century. Manuscripts from this period refer to the surname to a ‘Lihte’ family. The earliest recorded spelling of Lightsey was in the year 1230 when John le Lyhte was noted in the Hundred Rolls of Norfolk.
Lightsey is still common in England today, and it can also be found in the US, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa and other English speaking countries. Those with the last name Lightsey or its variants generally have origins in England, although some have roots in Scotland, Ireland, or Wales.
The motto of the Lightsey family name is ‘Light up the World.’ This motto is representative of the origins of the surname, as well as its symbolism. The Lightsey family has a long and storied history, and their surname is sure to remain an important part of English history for generations to come.
Order DNA origin analysisLightsey: Where does the name Lightsey come from?
The surname Lightsey is most commonly found in the United States. It is particularly prevalent in the states of Alabama, Georgia, and North and South Carolina.
The name Lightsey is thought to have originated in the British Isles in the form 'Lithesay.' Records in the 17th century, when mass migration to America began, show a family of the name settling in South Carolina, which was one of the earliest American colonies. The Lightsey family flourished in this area, and by the 1890s, over 2,500 people in the state bore the surname.
Today, most of theLightsey families in America have since roots the South Carolina area. Alabama is the second most popular state with Lightsey families, with 1,200 living there. North Caroline has 1,000, and Georgia is home to about 400 Lightsey's.
In addition, many Lightseys have spread throughout the United States and abroad, so it is possible to find the name in all 50 states. It also appears to have spread to Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom and Germany.
Lightseys today carry on the legacy of their ancestors, with their name remaining a community amongst families. Many of descendant of Lightsey's have gone on to hold numerous state and federal offices, including senators, a president of the United States and a United States Supreme Court justice.
Variations of the surname Lightsey
The surname Lightsey is a variant spelling of the surname Lightsey and is derived from the Old English language. The surname originates from the Old English word 'leac', meaning 'wood' or 'clearing'. The surname is typically found in the United States and is of American origin.
Lightsey is the most common spelling of this surname. Other variant spellings or forms of this surname include: Lightsie, Lightseye, Lightsye, Lightsy, Lightsee, Lyghtsey, and Lighsey.
Surnames which are considered to be derivatives of Lightsey include: Lights, Lightfoot, Lighthall, Lightheart, Lightbody, Lightwood, Lightbown, and Lightcap.
Due to the many different spellings of this surname, some alternate spellings may be found with slight variations in spelling. For example, Lighzey, Lightsee, Lightseye, Lyghtsey, and Lightsy may be found as alternative spellings.
Despite its many alternate variants, the surname Lightsey has numerous variations in spelling that can all be traced back to its original form. It is important to remember that names can often be misspelled, so attention should always be paid to ensure the correct spelling.
Famous people with the name Lightsey
- LaTara Lightsey: Snoop Dogg's former personal assistant
- Allen Lightsey: Fullback of the San Diego Chargers
- Chad Lightsey: NFL tight end
- Dye Lightsey Jr.: Award-winning Georgia artist
- Austin Lightsey: Professional basketball player
- Dave Lightsey: NASCAR driver
- Alex Lightsey: Musician and vocalist
- Coy Lightsey: NFL cornerback
- Parker Lightsey: Former Laney College running back
- Brandon Lightsey: Musician and songwriter
- Nicole Lightsey: Professional football player
- Austin Lightsey Jr.: Champion equestrian show jumper
- Cat Lightsey: Television and film artist
- Bonnie Lightsey: World champion barrel racer
- Travis Lightsey: Professional tennis player
- Winn Lightsey: NBA player
- Miranda Lightsey: Former Miss Georgia USA
- Brandy Lightsey: Child actress
- Elaine Lightsey: Artist and sculptor
- Hal Lightsey: Executive and social media director