Surname Stiffy - Meaning and Origin

Stiffy: What does the surname Stiffy mean?

The last name Stiffy is believed to be of English origin, and is thought to originate from either the Old English word “stiffe,” meaning stiff, or the Middle English word “stive,” meaning independent or proud. As such, the name is most likely associated with qualities of strength, courage, and independence.

Historians suggest that the name was likely used for many centuries in England, and likely blossomed with the aftermath of the Norman Conquest in 1066. From that point on, people started taking on last names in order to differentiate themselves from others.

Today, the name has seen a place around the world, primarily in Commonwealth countries, but also in the United States of America. In certain areas, the name may have developed diminutive forms, such as “Stiff” or “Stiffey” that are now considered as separate surnames.

Analyzing the etymological origins of the name, one can see that it is most likely associated with qualities of determination, stubbornness, and strength. Bearing the name Stiffy, people of this name are often proud of who they are and have a strong sense of self-confidence and independence.

Stiffy: Where does the name Stiffy come from?

The last name Stiffy is not a very common surname today. It is mainly found in England, Scotland, Wales, Australia, and New Zealand, though there have been instances of people with the Stiffy surname in other countries. The most likely place to find the Stiffy surname today is in England, where people with this surname have been a part of the country’s population for centuries.

The Stiffy surname is likely derived from a nickname for a person known for their stubbornness or stiff nature. The most common spelling of Stiffy is stif, though alternate spellings include Stiffie, Stif, Stiffey, and Stiffys.

Most of the people with the Stiffy name today trace their roots back to England. The name can be found in many records, although it does not appear to be any more common today than it was in past centuries. While there are some people with the name who reside in other countries, the majority of the people with the Stiffy surname still live in the United Kingdom.

In terms of population numbers, the Stiffy surname is not among the most common names in the United Kingdom. However, it is still likely to be encountered in various records and in conversations. The name is still fairly rare, so people with the Stiffy surname are likely to be of direct relation to each other.

Variations of the surname Stiffy

The surname Stiffy is an Anglicized version of the Irish Gaelic name "O Siofaigh". Variations on the spelling of the surname Stiffy can includeStuffy, Steffey, Steffy, Stewfy, Stevey, Stifkey, Stifey, and Stivy.

Surnames with the same origin as Stiffy include O'Sheaffy, Shavey, Shiffy, McShavey, and McSheffy. These surnames originate from the root name "O Siofaigh" which translates to “Descendent of Siofra” in Irish Gaelic. Siofra was an ancient Irish name meaning “peaceful or tranquil” in reference to a pleasant spirit or persona.

The spelling of the surname Stiffy can also be altered depending on the location and time period. Spelling variations, such as Stuffie, Shepheaith, Shephetheth,Ziffy, and Tuggie may be found if researching historical records.

In addition, if researching the surname Stiffy in modern times, alternate spellings such as Tafi, Shee, Eshee, Sheffe, Ediff and others, may be found as many Irish families changed the spelling of their surname to avoid discrimination.

Overall, Stiffy is an Irish surname with a long and varied history. For those researching records, be sure to closely examine variations of spelling and different origins of the surname to ensure accuracy in family history research.

Famous people with the name Stiffy

• Lou Stiffy: Canadian country singer
• Zeb Stiffy: American Old Comedy actor
• R.J. Stiffy: American rapper
• J.T. Stiffy: British indie rock artist
• Pat Stiffy: American singer-songwriter
• John Stiffy: Canadian hockey player
• Betty Stiffy: American actress and director
• Amie Stiffy: American singer and songwriter
• Mark Stiffy: Australian Big Wave surfer
• Marty Stiffy: Irish television presenter

Other surnames

Stiff