Surname Linville - Meaning and Origin

Unraveling History: An In-depth Look at the Linville Surname Through iGENEA DNA Test Results

In my journey to trace the historical bloodline of the Linville surname, the iGENEA DNA test offered a blend of hard science and dense history. The findings have outlined an unexpected genetic connection to the Celts and Vikings and deep-rooted ties with the oldest European settlers, providing a powerful and vivid portrait of my personal heritage.

O. Linville

Linville: What does the surname Linville mean?

The surname Linville originates from England and has a topographical origin. The name derives from Old English elements, where "lin" means flax and "ville" or "fille" is a derivative of "feld", which means field. Therefore, Linville can be interpreted as 'flax field'. Flax was a common crop in medieval England and was primarily used for its oil and fiber. The person who first assumed this surname most likely lived by, worked in, or owned a flax field. Due to the regional variations in England, this surname has several forms, such as Lynfield, Lynnville, and Linfield. Like many surnames that spread throughout the world with the colonization and migration of families, you can find variations of this name in different countries today. The name started gaining prominence in America around the 18th Century. Despite not being a common surname, it is still in use across the globe, most instances found in the United States.

Linville: Where does the name Linville come from?

The surname Linville is of Norman origin, deriving from the Old French word "lin" for flax or linen and "ville" for town or settlement. It is believed to be a locational surname, indicating families who originated from a place associated with linen making. The Normans introduced it to England during their invasion in 1066. From England, the name spread to Ireland and Scotland, and then to North America with early British colonialism.

Today, the surname Linville is relatively rare, but it is more common in the United States, specifically in North Carolina where a town is even named Linville. It can also be found in lower frequencies in Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. However, it’s important to remember that the distribution of a surname can change significantly over time due to migrations and demographic changes.

Variations of the surname Linville

The surname Linville has numerous possible variants and spellings due to regional differences, phonetic spellings, and immigration changes over time. Some common variations include:

Linnville, Lynville, Lynnvil, Linsville, Linvol, Lynvile, Linvill, Lynnvile, Lenvil, etc. One of the common misspellings includes the usage of a single 'n' as in 'Linville' instead of 'Linnville'.

It may also be interlinked with or originated from other similar last names such as Lindville, Lindvall, Lindell, Lindwall, or Lindquist which are of Scandinavian or North European origin.

It's also possible that Linville may have evolved or been altered from the French surname Linville or German surname Lindau or Linda.

However, it's important to note that while these variations and similar surnames may share phonetic and visual similarities, it does not necessarily imply they share a common origin or ancestry. Surnames can often be influenced by geographical locations, occupation, personal characteristics, or patriarchal/matriarchal names, leading to variations across different cultures and countries. Therefore, detailed genealogical research would be required to accurately determine the exact origins and variants of the surname Linville.

Famous people with the name Linville

• Richard Linville: Best known as “B.J. Hunnicutt” in the widely popular television show, M*A*S*H.
• Rebecca Linville: Singer/songwriter and former member of the band Peterson, Rebecca & Darrin.
• Brooke Linville: Actress, who starred in the short film The Light Inside of Me.
• Ray Linville: Former NFL player who played as a linebacker for the San Diego Chargers.
• Nikole Linville: Professional snowboarder and Olympic medalist.
• Tim Linville: Musician and concert violinist, who has performed at Carnegie Hall.
• Gene Linville: Jazz vocalist and band leader from the 1940s and 50s.
• Ian L. Linville: Artist and author, best known for original artwork and writings related to Surrealism.
• Bob Linville: Emmy Award-winning television and video producer who worked as both a writer and director.
• Craig Linville: Former Major League Baseball pitcher, who played for the Seattle Mariners.

Other surnames

Linvill