Surname Spade - Meaning and Origin
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Spade: What does the surname Spade mean?
The last name Spade is a unique and interesting name that can be traced back to ancestors of many European countries, particularly Britain. It first appeared in England and Scotland in the 12th century and was likely derived from an Old French term “espade” meaning “sword.”
The use of swords was a common practice during this time period, so it is possible that the name evolved from an earlier form such as “espada”, a Spanish term for the same object. It has been speculated that the name first appeared in the English language as a nickname for someone who was brave or otherwise talented with the weapon, or perhaps a blacksmith who often crafted blades.
In Bardic and mythological contexts, the spade symbolises courage, strength and protection. In modern society, this surname has become a popular choice for parents looking to carry on the tradition of their bygone ancestors.
Beyond the meanings referenced in origin, the Spade surname has become associated with strong values such as hard work, loyalty, and integrity. Today, it is a source of pride for those who bear it, as it honours the spirit of a tireless warrior and tireless laborer.
Order DNA origin analysisSpade: Where does the name Spade come from?
The last name Spade is most commonly found in the United States today, largely due to its connection to the popular card game, Bridge. It is estimated that around 12,000 individuals in the US have the surname Spade, and is growing in popularity.
The popularity of the last name is likely derived from Spade cards, which are the highest-ranking suit in Bridge and Hearts. In addition to card games, the word "spade" is also connected to farming, specifically the tool of a spade which is used for digging and turning soil in a garden.
While it is more common in the United States, people with the last name Spade can also be found scattered throughout other countries, such as Canada, Mexico, Brazil, England, Italy, Russia, and Australia.
The Spade surname is suggested to have been in use in some form or another since the 15th century, and is likely derived from old Germanic roots. It is commonly thought that the original bearer of the name was an individual who used or manufactured a spade-like tool.
Variations of the surname Spade
The surname Spade is an English and German patronymic surname that is derived from the medieval given name "Spade". It originates from a nickname derived from the Old English word "spadu", meaning 'sword'. It is also related to the Spanish surname Spada. Variants of the surname Spade include Spad, Spada, Spiel, Spall, Spaulding, Spaw, and Spawl.
In England, the Spade surname is particularly common in the Midlands, especially Cornwall and Devon. In Germany, it is mainly found in Bavaria, Thuringia, and Saxony.
Spellings of the surname Spade vary and include Spaid, Spayd, Spayed, and Spead. German spelling variants include Spaed, Spaidt, Spayd, and Spayde.
Surnames that are related to Spade include Spalding, Spalden, Spawill, Speall, Speaight, and Speelt. These are all derived from various variants of the Old English "spadu" for sword. The French spelling of Spade is Espade and the Italian and Spanish forms are Spada and Espadas, respectively.
In conclusion, the surname Spade has many variants and spellings that are related to it. It originated from a nickname derived from the Old English word 'spadu', meaning 'sword'. Variants and surname variants include Spad, Spada, Spalding, Spalden, Spawill, Speall, Speaight, Speelt, Espade, Spada, and Espadas.
Famous people with the name Spade
- David Spade: American Actor, Stand-up Comedian and Television Personality
- Chris Spade: Former American professional Baseball player
- Jack Spade: American fashion designer
- Samantha Spade: Fictional character on the American television drama, "Without a Trace"
- Katherine Spade: American designer and businesswoman
- Willie Spade: Singer and songwriter
- Jim Spade: Actor and televison producer
- Tommy Spade: Actor and producer
- Robert Spade: Astronomer
- Anna Spade: American children's writer
- John Spade: Singer-songwriter, musician
- Robert Spade: American journalist
- Randall Spade: British Military Officer
- Dexter Spade: Actor, Voice Actor and Musician
- Renate Spade: German politician
- Jesse Spade: Reality and Television Personality
- Nicole Spade: Actress and dancer
- Gert Spade: German architect
- Ryan Spade: American composer and musician
- Amanda Spade: British engineer and physicist