Surname Handshaw - Meaning and Origin

Handshaw: What does the surname Handshaw mean?

Handshaw is a surname of English origin. Like many surnames, it is likely to be derived from a geographical location or profession. However, there is no specific or commonly recognized meaning associated with the name Handshaw. The two parts of the name, "hand" and "shaw," could have multiple interpretations individually, but their combination does not yield any universally accepted meaning. "Hand" could refer to the physical appendage or to human manual skill or labor. "Shaw" often denotes a grove or small woods in old English, or it could have reference to a thicket or meadow. It's also found in various place-names throughout areas of pre-Norman England. Each family with the name Handshaw likely has its own individual history and origins tied to the name's meaning. As with many surnames, Handshaw's exact origin and meaning can be difficult to definitively trace. It is best for those interested in their family history to explore genealogical records and resources.

Handshaw: Where does the name Handshaw come from?

The surname Handshaw appears to be of British origin, possibly derived from a small community, hamlet or a geographical feature in the United Kingdom. Exact origins are unclear due to its rare occurrence. The name may be topographical, related to a feature of the landscape, such as a hill, valley or type of tree. It can also be occupational, implying a trade or profession, or derive from a personal nickname. Names such as Handshaw are often unique to certain areas due to differences in local dialects and languages.

Currently, Handshaw is considered a very uncommon last name. It does not appear in high numbers within the United States, United Kingdom or elsewhere according to the available databases. It is likely that the families bearing this last name are scattered in several different regions rather than concentrated in one area today. Due to migration patterns, it could potentially be found anywhere in the English-speaking world. Despite its rarity, the name Handshaw carries a rich cultural and linguistic history. As with all surnames, each family with the Handshaw name will have their unique lineage and ancestry.

Variations of the surname Handshaw

The surname Handshaw is relatively rare and specific, and while there is limited information available regarding its variations, it could possibly have similar versions like Handchaw, Handswaw, Handeshaw or Handschaw. Another plausible variant could be Handshawe.

Surnames that might have a similar origin are those that also denote geographical or occupational features. For example, the name Handel (like the famous composer George Frideric Handel) has a similar root, originating from the profession of a handler, or one who works with their hands.

Hanshaw is another surname that could potentially share the same roots or similar origins because of the phonetic similarities.

The surname could also potentially have a British origin as Shaw is a common ending to British family names. Variants of Shaw ending names include Bradshaw, Crenshaw, and Hinshaw which could share similar geographical or occupation related roots to Handshaw.

However, as the surname Handshaw is quite unique and not commonly found, these are all speculations based on how surnames typically evolve and vary and one should consider genealogical research for more precise variants and origins.

Famous people with the name Handshaw

• Ken Handshaw: Canadian football player
• Chris Handshaw: American disc jockey
• Marissa Handshaw: Brazilian actress and singer
• Melissa Handshaw: American author
• Mark Handshaw: Australian sports commentator
• Dr. Randal Handshaw: American sociologist and author
• Mike Handshaw: Canadian musician
• Pippa Handshaw: English writer and artist
• Mikey Handshaw: British professional soccer player
• Jonathan Handshaw: English pop star and actor

Other surnames

Handshoe