TheNameDBNightingale
TopographicMeaning
Derived from the nightingale bird, possibly indicating residence near a location associated with nightingales.
Etymology
Nightingale comes from the Old English 'nihtegale', combining 'niht' (night) and 'gale' (to sing). The surname likely originated as a topographic name for someone living in an area known for nightingales or as a nickname for someone with a pleasant voice.
About the Nightingale Surname
Nightingale is an English surname with poetic origins, likely referring to a place or characteristic associated with the bird. It gained prominence through Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing.
Distribution
Found primarily in England and among English-speaking populations.
Notable Bearers
Florence Nightingale (British nurse and social reformer)