Surname Swalow - Meaning and Origin

Swalow: What does the surname Swalow mean?

The last name Swalow is of English origin and is a locational surname derived from a place in England called Swallow. It was first found in Cheshire and Lancashire in England, where the family is thought to have held a seat since early times in the 13th century. The name is derived from the Old English word “swalwe,” meaning “swallow bird” or “swallow bird’s nest.” Historically, the Swalow family was well known as a gentry family in these areas, and held large estates, lands, and titles. The name is thought to have been introduced to English by the Normans in the 11th century when – after the conquest of the Anglo-Saxons – they brought with them their French names. But since the language in France at the time was largely Latin, the name was probably created from the Latin word “hirundo,” meaning “swallow.” As a result, the Swalow family established a presence in many regions of England and its associated islands. In modern times, the Swalow name has been found in many parts of the world including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The Swalow surname continues to be an important and respected name in many English families.

Swalow: Where does the name Swalow come from?

The last name Swalow is most commonly found in the United Kingdom, with some presence in other areas of Europe, as well as the United States. In the UK, Swalow is most prevalent in Lancashire and Yorkshire, with additional clusters in East Anglia, London, and in areas of Scotland including the Borders and Angus. In the United States, Swalow is seen primarily on the East Coast, in states such as Ohio, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and New York.

Swalow is a toponymic surname, derived from areas of the United Kingdom where there were swales, which were shallow bodies of water. This name likely originated in a specific geographical area, and was then brought to other locations of the United Kingdom as it spread from its place of origin.

Like other Anglo-Saxon last names, Swalow was likely created in the 14th or 15th centuries, typically derived from the first name of a father or ancestor. There are various spelling variations of Swalow, including Swallow, Swalowe, and Swallowe.

Today, Swalows are actively engaged in a number of industries, particularly those related to business and government. The last name carries an element of prestige and its bearer may enjoy a level of respect and admiration in their community.

Variations of the surname Swalow

Swalow is an English surname with several variants. The spelling Swallow is the most common, with variations including Swallowe, Swalowe, Swallowey, Swalwey, Swalwy, Swally, and Swalley. In some cases, the spelling has been changed to Swalow.

The surname is thought to have originated as a nickname for an individual who shared characteristics with a swallow. This may include someone who traveled a lot or who was agile, graceful, and tireless like a swallow in flight.

In some cases, the surname might have originated as a variant of the surname Swale, which is an English topographic name for someone who lived in a valley characterized by wetlands and a shallow river.

Places where the surname Swalow is primarily found include northern England, parts of Ireland, Germany, and France. Immigrants from these countries helped to bring the surname to other countries, such as the United States.

In the United States, the surname Swalow can be found as far back as the 1600s. The most common states for this surname are New York, California, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Massachusetts.

Famous people with the name Swalow

• Stephen Swallow, American double bass and electric bass guitarist
• Abigail Swallow, British TV presenter
• Captain E.J. Swallow, British politician
• Emma Swallow, British actress
• Hubert Swallow, English rugby union player
• Corinne Swallow, British stand-up comedian
• Tracey Swallow, Welsh rugby union player
• Sam Swallow, English footballer
• Duff Swallow, Australian Army general
• Leah Swallow, British professional golfer

Other surnames

Swalowe