Wells

Meaning and origin

The surname Wells traces its origin to Old English, specifically from the word "waella" meaning "well" or "spring." Often associated with a place name, it likely denoted someone residing near or working at a well or spring. Over time, the name has evolved and spread through various migrations, ultimately becoming a common surname today.

The longer story

The last name Wells is of English origin and is a locational surname, meaning it is derived from a specific place name. In this case, the name Wells is derived from various places around England that have the name "Wells" in their place name.

The Wells surname can be traced back to the 13th century, and its origin can be linked to the Old English word "wyell," which means "spring" or "stream." As a result, it is likely that the Wells surname was originally given to individuals who lived near a well or a spring. This locational connection suggests that the Wells surname was adopted by people who resided near such geographic features, or who originated from towns or villages with wells or springs.

The popularity of the Wells surname can be seen throughout history, and it is not limited to one specific region in England. There are numerous towns and cities in England with the name Wells, including Wells in Somerset, Wells-next-the-Sea in Norfolk, and Wellsborough in Leicestershire. It is highly likely that individuals living in these areas adopted the Wells surname.

Surname origins are rarely settled: one spelling can have several sources, and families often took a name for reasons nobody wrote down. Check it against the sources below before you rely on it.