Surname Herlawe - Meaning and Origin

Herlawe: What does the surname Herlawe mean?

The last name Herlawe is believed to be of Anglo-Saxon origin and derived from the Old English words “here” and “lawe”, which together mean “army law”. This suggests that this was a surname adopted by someone who had received a high military rank. It is believed that Herlawe was a military rank used by the English during Medieval times, though the exact rank is not clear.

The surname Herlawe may be more commonly found in English and Welsh records, although some versions of the name may be found in other countries with large British diaspora populations. As an anglicized surname, it is thought that the spelling of the name may have been altered over time.

Today, those with the surname Herlawe may be found in most English-speaking countries, with some of the highest concentrations found in the United States. In the United States, the surname is believed to have been used by settlers from the English colonies in North America. The surname may also be found in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Scotland, and Ireland.

Although the meaning of Herlawe may have changed over time, it is likely that anyone bearing this surname is descended from a person of high military rank and honor. This surname may be seen as a sign of strength, bravery, and the military heritage of the British Isles.

Herlawe: Where does the name Herlawe come from?

The last name Herlawe is not a common surname today, however, it has a rich history and significant presence across Europe and the United States in the past. In the United Kingdom, Herlawe is believed to be of English origin and dates back to the early 13th century. It was popular in the North of England, particularly in Lancashire and Yorkshire. In the United States, the name is found mainly in Pennsylvania, where early records of German settlers dating back to the 1700s were found. The family name is also found in Germany, Austria, Belgium, as well as in some parts of Africa and India.

The origin of the Herlawe name is debated. However, the most popular explanation is that it is derived from 'Herlew' which means 'the sheath of a sword' in Old English. In addition, some historians have suggested that Herlawe is a shortened version of Herrer Lewe, originating from the German-Jewish 'Lewy' or 'Levy'.

Today, it is no longer a popular surname and is rarely found across the world. It is unheard of and difficult to find in the United States. Nonetheless, it is still present amongst those who have family ties to the original British, German, Austrian, and Dutch Herlawe families.

Variations of the surname Herlawe

The surname Herlawe is a variation of the French surname Harlawe or Herlevae. Historically, this surname has been found in documents written in numerous spellings and variations, includingHalvie, Harlow, Harleve, Herlov, Herley, Herlaeve, andHerlouve.

The earliest known use of this surname is in the 11th century, where it is found in Normandy, France. It was a topographical name for someone living near a chestnut tree, derived from the combination of the Old French words "hars," meaning "chestnut tree," and "loef," meaning "wood." This surname and its variations may also derive from the Old German words "Her" and "Lauf," which mean "army," "line," or "procession."

According to the genealogical site FamilySearch, the surname can be found in several genealogical records and documents in French, English, and Irish contexts. In the United States, variants of this surname can be found in several states including New York, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Florida, and California.

In England, variants of the surname Herlawe include Harloe, Harlow, Herloef, and Harloeve. In Scotland, variants of the surname include Harlase, Harlow, and Herlaeue. In France, variants of the surname include Harlefive and Herlouve. In Ireland, variants of the surname include Harlowe, Herlow, and Herlefie.

The surname Herlawe is still in use today, and its variants are found in many countries around the world.

Famous people with the name Herlawe

• Hannah Herlihy: American model and entrepreneur
• Jo Herlawe: British architect, curator, and educator
• David Herlihy: American historian and author
• Jack Herlihy: American actor and writer
• Justin Herlihy: American voice actor
• Elizabeth Herlihy: American actress
• Sasha Herlihy: Irish actress and filmmaker
• Eddie Herlawe:American television producer and radio DJ
• Gavin Herlihy: English electronic music producer and live performer
• Dan Herlawe: American musician and composer

Other surnames

Herlaye