Surname Pew - Meaning and Origin

Pew: What does the surname Pew mean?

The surname Pew is of English origin, derived from the Middle English term 'pew', meaning 'enclosed seat in a church'. It is thought to have been an occupational name for someone who made or sold these church furnishings. Over time, these occupational names were passed down the generations and became surnames. Thus, someone bearing this surname may have a distant ancestor who was involved in making or selling church pews. As with many surnames, there may be other possible origins, including geographical locations, nicknames, or even physical attributes. Variations of the name include Pue, Pugh, Pye, and Pewe. However, due to the many centuries that have passed and the alterations in spelling over time, it can be difficult to ascertain an accurate origin story for any given surname, including Pew.

Pew: Where does the name Pew come from?

The last name Pew is mainly associated with the United States today. According to the US Census Bureau, the last name Pew is most common in Texas, California, and Georgia. It can also be found in many other states including Oklahoma, New Jersey, Missouri, and New York.

The surname Pew is thought to have originated from the old Irish name Ó Púbháin which means “descendant of the púbhain or “poetic people.” It was an occupational name for a poet or bard. It is also believed that the name could have been derived from the old English word pou, meaning “pig.”

There are quite a few branches of the Pew family tree in the United States today, including prominent figures like the CEO and Chairman of the Pew Research Center, John D.R.Pew III, and the publisher of the Philadelphia Inquirer, William T. Pew, Jr.

The last name Pew is still being passed down from generation to generation of Americans. While the name isn’t necessarily common across the entire country, it can still be found concentrated in specific regions, especially the southern states and parts of the Midwest.

Variations of the surname Pew

The surname Pew, which can also be spelled Pews, Pugh, and Pue, is of Old English origin. Its root is from the Middle English word "pew", which originated from the Latin word "pagus," meaning "a rural district". This source refers back to the original Anglo-Saxon form of the name, which was "Pue."

The surname Pew can also be spelled in various ways, including Pugh, Pue, Puee, Pews, Pow, Pooh, Poow, Po, and Powe. Its variants may also be found with the Irish prefix "Mc" or "O'," such as McPew, O'Pue, or O'Pews.

The surname can be found in records from England, Ireland, and Scotland in both its original Old English form and its modern variants. The surname is most closely associated with England, where it is found mainly in the south-west and the Midlands.

In the United States, the surname is most commonly recorded in Tennessee, West Virginia, and Virginia. In Scotland, the surname is found mainly in Argyll and Dumfriesshire; while in Ireland, there are records from Meath, Leinster, and Connacht.

As a result of immigration, Pew is no longer limited to its original countries of origin. It is found in many parts of the world, including Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. It is also common among diaspora communities, such as Jews of Eastern European descent.

Overall, Pew is an old and well-established surname that maintains its popularity and relevance. Its various spellings and associated surnames reflect its ancient heritage, as well as its eventual adoption and evolution in different countries.

Famous people with the name Pew

• Alice Pew; Australian scientist who was the first female to be appointed to the CSIRO board of directors.
• James Clement Pew; American businessman and philanthropist who co-founded the Sun Oil Company.
• Larry Pew; American politician from Massachusetts who was a member of the United States House of Representatives.
• Mark Pew; American businessman and entrepreneur who is the CEO of Pew Research Center.
• Bill Pew; American military leader who served as an officer in the U.S. Navy.
• Richard Pew; American poet and translator from Manchester, England.
• Eliezer Pew; Jewish theologian who was one of the first rabbis to move to the United States.
• David Pew; American educator and politician who served as the superintendent of the Iowa State Teachers College.
• John Pew; American businessman who was the founder of modern racing sailboats.
• Louella Pew; American television writer who wrote for the show ‘Leave it to Beaver.’

Other surnames

PewittPewsner