Surname Wanliss - Meaning and Origin
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Wanliss: What does the surname Wanliss mean?
The surname Wanliss is most likely of Scottish origin but its exact meaning is unclear, as it does not seem to be a common or well-documented name. Some suggest that it may be linked to a particular location or place in Scotland, as it's a practice to derive surnames from geographical features or places. Others propose that it could be an occupational name, reflecting a particular trade or profession. Another assumption is it could potentially derive from an old personal name. However, without specific research or clear documented history, these are just estimations. Like many surnames, over time it may have undergone spelling changes and variations making it more difficult to find the true meaning or origin. In cases like this, genealogical or arc hive research may provide further clues to the surname's origin and meaning.
Order DNA origin analysisWanliss: Where does the name Wanliss come from?
The last name Wanliss is largely associated with England, specifically the Midlands region and greater London area, though it can also be found in some other countries in Europe and in North America. It is believed to have originated in England in the 11th century, and is an anglicized version of the French name 'Vanlisse.' It is also believed that the name originated from the Norman French phrase 'want lisses', meaning 'the smooth river.'
In England, the Wanliss name holders were involved in a variety of industries, including dock work, soldiering, and even literature. In the present day, Wanliss is a relatively common surname in England, particularly in the Midlands region. It has also spread to countries in other parts of Europe, such as France, Germany, and the Netherlands.
North America has also witnessed an influx of Wanliss surname holders. It is found particularly in the United States, where it is most commonly found in the states of New York, Massachusetts, and California. While many Wanliss surname holders trace their roots to England, many in the U.S. can trace their roots to other parts of Europe as well.
Thus, while the Wanliss surname may have its origins in England, it has spread far and wide and is relatively common in many parts of the world. In England and North America, it is relatively easy to find people with the Wanliss surname.
Variations of the surname Wanliss
The Wanliss surname is of Scottish, Anglo-Saxon, and French origin. It is thought to have originated from the name Wanelet, which is a combination of the French words “wane” and “let”, meaning “meadow stream”.
Variations and spellings of the name Wanliss include Wanelet, Wanyles, Wanely, Walas, Wanles, Wannles, Wannlis, Wannsly, Waunliss, Waunlis, Wannliss, Waunlees, Wanlesse, and Wanyely.
The surnames and spellings deriving from the Wanliss surname include Wanley, Wanlay, Waneley, Vanleese, Wanlies, Wanliss, Wanye, Wanya, Wanneys, Wantsley, Wanlees, Vaanlies, Waldless, Wanliss, Wanniely, Wannly, Wanless, Wanlesses, Walonny, Wannlys, and Wanly.
Wanliss is derived from old English or Gaelic words, such as ‘wan’ meaning ‘meadow stream’ and ‘les’ meaning ‘one that’. This indicates that the origin of the Wanliss surname may be from locations near meandering streams or rivers. It is possible this is where the occupants of the area with this surname lived, originally.
The variations of the name Wanliss are a perfect example of how different surnames and spellings can stem from the same origin. Its interesting history and origins makes it a popular surname to trace and research.
Famous people with the name Wanliss
- Patrick Wanliss, a British politician and South London entrepreneur.
- Lance Wanliss, an American football cornerback who played one season in the National Football League.
- Tom Wanliss, an Australian rules football player in the South Australian National Football League.
- Christine Wanliss, a British stage actress who was a leading lady with the Moody Players in the 1950s.
- Samantha Wanliss, a Canadian actress, writer, and filmmaker.
- Lester Wanliss, a South African actor and director.
- Gregory Wanliss, an American actor, playwright, and director.
- Alexander Wanliss, a British military officer and engineer.
- Alan Wanliss, an Italian-Australian journalist and broadcaster.
- Theophilus Wanliss, an Australian politician and Member of the Legislative Assembly in Victoria.
- David Wanliss, a British author and writer.
- Robert Wanliss, a British civil servant who was a Clerk in the British Parliament.
- Brian Wanliss, a British engineer and physicist who worked on the sound analysis of music.
- Francis Wanliss, a British chartered engineer who worked on the UK's first nuclear power station.
- Allen Wanliss, a British colonial administrator in India and the first British consul in Saudi Arabia.
Other surnames
Comments or additions to the name "Wanliss"
27.03.2024
Vidal Fitzherbert Wanliss