Surname Maudsley - Meaning and Origin
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Maudsley: What does the surname Maudsley mean?
The surname Maudsley is of Anglo-Saxon origin, with roots in medieval England. It is derived from the old English words 'Mawd' meaning 'Mad', and 'Leah' meaning 'wood' or 'clearing'. Therefore, the surname Maudsley can be interpreted as 'mad clearing' or 'mad wood'. This likely referred to a location or landmark in the area where the original bearers of the name lived. It is also possible that the name was descriptive, given to someone who lived near a woodland or clearing that was considered unusual or 'mad' in some way. Like many old English surnames, it may have served to distinguish one person from others in the same village or area who had the same first name. Over time, it became a hereditary surname passed down from one generation to the next.
Order DNA origin analysisMaudsley: Where does the name Maudsley come from?
The last name Maudsley is not overly common today, but is found mainly in the United Kingdom, particularly England and Wales. There are also some Maudsleys in North America, mainly in Canada, the United States, and Mexico. It is likely that many of the Maudsleys living in North America are descended from British ancestors who emigrated during the 19th and 20th centuries.
The Maudsley name dates back to Medieval times, when it was a name used for those living near Maudsley, a parish located near Bolton in Lancashire, England. The earliest known recording of the surname is from 1275, when John de Maudslay was recorded in the Fine Court Rolls for Lancashire. It is probable that other recordings of the surname date even further back still.
Despite being relatively rare today, the Maudsley name can still be found throughout England and other parts of the United Kingdom, as well as in North America. It remains an interesting and relatively uncommon surname with a fascinating historical heritage.
Variations of the surname Maudsley
The surname Maudsley is of English origin and it can be found across different countries within the English speaking world. Variations of this surname include Maudesley, Maultsey, Maulsley, Moulsey, Mowlesey, Mowlesly, Mowly, Mowles, and Mawdsley. The latter form can also be found as a given name.
The spelling of this surname can also vary depending on the country it is found in. For instance, Mawdsley or Mowlesly is more common in the United States, while in the United Kingdom it is more commonly spelled with the -s- and -ey suffix.
Another common variation is Maudslay, which is an alternative spelling of the surname. The surname 'Maudslay' is likely a variation of 'Maudebury' and was likely early Huguenot (French) in origin. This version of the surname is commonly found in Canada.
Additionally, variant surnames based on the spelling of Maudsley have been found in other countries such as Ireland, Scotland and Italy. These surnames include Madilsy, Medeley, Maisdley, Medsly, Maidsley, Maudiely, and Maddely.
In the United States, the Maudsley surname is most common in the state of Massachusetts. It is also found in California, Pennsylvania, New York, Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, New Jersey, and Florida.
In the United Kingdom, the surname is particularly common in London and Lancashire. It can also be found in smaller numbers in other parts of England, Wales, and Scotland.
The variants of Maudsley stem from the Anglicised form of the Old French given name 'Maude', which means 'strong battle maiden'. The meaning of the surname hence has strong connections with strength and battle.
Famous people with the name Maudsley
- Emma Maudsley: actress who has starred in films like 'The Alamo' and 'Broken Bridges'.
- Henry Maudsley: English psychiatrist and researcher active in the late 19th century.
- Robert Maudsley: English serial killer who has been in prison since 1977.
- William Maudsley: English trial lawyer and author of several books, including 'The Book of the Law'.
- Eric Maudsley: British swimmer who won gold in the 4x200m freestyle relay at the Athens Olympics in 2004.
- Robert Maudsley: English Neuroscientist, educator, and broadcaster.
- Patrick Maudsley: English architect, best known for his work on 19th century churches.
- Sam Maudsley: English actor, best known for his role in the stage production of Pippin.
- Darin Maudsley: American stuntman, who has performed stunts in various major films.
- Harry Maudsley: armature boxer and promoter in the UK during the 1930s and 1940s.