Summary

The surname Witherspoon is of English origin, derived from the combination of two elements - 'wither', meaning 'against' or 'opposite', and 'spoon', meaning 'a shallow bowl-shaped utensil'. It was likely an occupational name for someone who made spoons or utensils, or it could have been a nickname for someone with a spoon-like feature or characteristic. The history of the Witherspoon surname traces back to medieval times.
There are
13171
Witherspoons in the USA
Witherspoon is the
2736th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Witherspoon

ReeseWitherspoon

Reese Witherspoon is an American actress, producer, and entrepreneur. She rose to fame in the late 1990s with her roles in films such as 'Cruel Intentions' and 'Legally Blonde,' and has since won numerous accolades, including an Academy Award.

JohnWitherspoon

John Witherspoon was a Scottish-American Presbyterian minister and a Founding Father of the United States. He served as a delegate to the Continental Congress and signed the United States Declaration of Independence.

WilliamWitherspoon

William Witherspoon was an American politician and lawyer. He served as a U.S. Representative from North Carolina and was a signer of the Articles of Confederation.

JimmyWitherspoon

Jimmy Witherspoon was an American jump blues singer known for his smooth vocals and powerful delivery. He had a successful career spanning several decades and recorded numerous hit songs.

HenryWitherspoon

Henry Witherspoon was an African American civil rights activist and educator. He played a key role in the desegregation of schools and fought for equal rights and opportunities for African Americans.

GeorgeWitherspoon

George Witherspoon was a Scottish footballer who played as a defender. He had a successful career playing for clubs like Celtic and Rangers in the Scottish football league.

JaneWitherspoon

Jane Witherspoon is a British actress known for her performances in various stage plays and television dramas. She has received critical acclaim for her versatile acting skills.

RobertWitherspoon

Robert Witherspoon is a Canadian politician and lawyer. He has served as a Member of Parliament and has been an advocate for social justice and equality.

MaryWitherspoon

Mary Witherspoon was an American suffragist and women's rights activist. She fought for women's right to vote and was a prominent voice in the women's suffrage movement.

ThomasWitherspoon

Thomas Witherspoon was an English explorer and botanist. He conducted several expeditions to remote areas, discovering new plant species and contributing to the field of botany.

Witherspoon Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Witherspoon' is of Scottish origin. It is an anglicized form of the Gaelic name 'Mac Ghiolla Mhaoil,' which means 'son of the servant of the tonsured one' or 'son of the servant of the monastery.' The name likely referred to someone who worked at or lived near a monastery.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Witherspoon' is most commonly found in the United States, particularly in the southern states such as North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. It is also found in smaller numbers in Scotland and Canada.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Witherspoon' include 'Withers,' 'Spooner,' and 'Spooner.'
Migration and ImmigrationThe surname 'Witherspoon' was brought to the United States by Scottish immigrants, particularly in the 18th and 19th centuries. Many settled in the southern states and became prominent in various fields, including politics, education, and entertainment.