Surname Sipley - Meaning and Origin

Sipley: What does the surname Sipley mean?

The last name Sipley is an English-origin surname derived from the Old Norse term 'sippilus', meaning 'one who is characterized by a peaceful and steady demeanor.' The spelling of the name has varied over the centuries, with variations such as Sipple, Sippel, Sippell and Sepple.

Historically, the name Sipley most likely indicated someone who was known for their tranquil and quiet nature. The bearer of this name may have been a peace-maker or mediator within their community, playing a role in resolving disputes between feuding families.

In terms of migration over the centuries, it has been suggested that the Sipley surname began to spread across Europe with the migrations of Germanic peoples from the sixth century onwards. It is likely that it first migrated to the British Isles with incoming Norman settlers during the eleventh century.

Today, the surname Sipley is mainly found in the United States, primarily stemming from the ancestral migration of an English family by the name of Sipley, who settled in New England during the eighteenth century.

While the exact origins and meanings of the Sipley surname may be uncertain, it is clear that the people associated with this name throughout time have valued peacefulness, temperance, and harmonious relationships with their neighbors.

Sipley: Where does the name Sipley come from?

The last name Sipley is most common in the United States today. Specifically, data from the US Census Bureau shows that it is most often seen in the states of Texas, California, and Florida.

According to FamilySearch, the earliest records of this name date back to England in the mid-1300s. In the 1700s, Sipleys can be observed in Pennsylvania and Virginia. Over time, the family name began to spread and grow throughout the US.

In Texas, records show a church being built in 1874 by a Sipley family and dedicated to his memory.

In California, a gravestone with the Sipley name was found in 1876 in Shasta County.

Florida records also reveal a number of individuals named Sipley, including members of local legislatures in the late 1800s.

Today, Sipleys are found throughout the US and in other countries. Ancestry.com reports that individuals with the last name Sipley can be found in the states of New York, Illinois, Washington, and Oregon as well as Canada, Mexico, and the United Kingdom.

The Sipley name continues to grow and remain present in the US and beyond.

Variations of the surname Sipley

Sipley is a rare surname, probably derived from a place name. Variants of the Sipley surname include Sipple, Sippell, Sippel, Sippell, Siples, Sipole, and Sippells.

The spelling of the Sipley surname has changed over time. During the 18th and 19th centuries, it commonly took the form of "Sypley" or "Syples" as well as "Sippel" and "Sippell". During the same period, other variations such as "Sippelles" and "Syper" are also found.

In the early 20th century, the spelling of the nickname "Sippy" became a more common variant, while the traditional spelling of "Sipley" became less popular. Today, the more common variants of Sipley are "Sippell", "Siples", "Sippel" and "Sippells".

The surnames of Siples and Sippel were first found in the picturesque counties of Yorkshire and Lancashire in Northern England during the 17th century. Later, the surname spread to other parts of England, Wales and Ireland.

Sipley is an uncommon name today, however, variations such as Siples, Sippel, Sippel and Sippells are often encountered.

Famous people with the name Sipley

• Kelly Sipley, American film actor, director, and producer
• Ryan Sipley, New Zealand rugby league player
• Jock Sipley, South African rugby union player
• Laurie Sipley, British Olympic swimmer
• Louisa Sipley, American writer
• Amber Sipley, American television actor
• Troy Sipley, American FBI agent
• John Sipley, American politician
• Bruce Sipley, Australian cyclist
• Ken Sipley, former New Zealand professional rugby union player

Other surnames

Siple