Surname Cecil - Meaning and Origin

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iGENEA's DNA test results have served as an enlightening journey into my family's past, completely redefining my understanding of my surname, Cecil, and our family identity. Unraveling the tapestry of our Celtic roots and our ancestral lineage has offered newfound respect and pride in my surname and has significantly enriched my perception of my family's unique identity.

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Cecil: What does the surname Cecil mean?

The surname Cecil is of Welsh origin and derived from the given name Seisyll, which itself is derived from the Latin name "Sextilius." The name Sextilius is a Roman family name that was originally an old Roman nickname meaning "sixth" or "sixth-born." In Wales, where patronymic surnames were common, the "ap" or "son of" element got added to the name, thus creating "ap-Seisyll" which over time evolved into the current form "Cecil". It gained recognition in the British nobility due to the historical significance of Lord Burghley (William Cecil), who was the chief advisor of Queen Elizabeth I. Today, the surname Cecil remains attached to British nobility and history.

Cecil: Where does the name Cecil come from?

The surname Cecil has an English origin. The lineage traces back to the post-Norman conquerors period. Originating from a place name, Seacelle, in the district of Stratford in the county of Warwickshire, England, the name has existed since the 12th century. The first recorded spelling of the family name is that of Richard Sitsilt, which was dated 1202, in the Pipe Rolls of Warwickshire. The spelling morphed to Sycill, Syssell, then Cecil over several generations.

The Cecil family subsequently grew into a prominent aristocratic household, with multiple members serving as advisors to English monarchs, including William Cecil, the 1st Baron Burghley, who was a chief advisor to Queen Elizabeth I.

Today, the Cecil name can be found across the world, but particularly in English-speaking countries. It is particularly widespread in the United States, after British immigrants moved to the continent. Large concentrations are also found in the United Kingdom, Australia and Canada. However, it is worth noting that despite its geographical spread, the name Cecil is not exceedingly common in any particular region.

Variations of the surname Cecil

The surname Cecil has few known variants, which often result from individuals trying to phonetically spell or pronounce the name. "Cecill", "Cecyll", "Secill", "Cessil", "Sesil", and "Cesil" are some variants. In terms of surnames of the same origin, Cecil is derived from the Latin name "Caecilius", which is also a common root for the surnames Cilley, Siciliano, Scillieri, and Siciliano.

The name Cecil has Anglo-Saxon origins and has been used as both a first name and a surname. As a surname, it was first adopted by the English branch of the ancient Roman family "Caecilius", who came to England following the Norman Conquest in 1066. The family eventually rose to prominence as Earls and Marquesses of Exeter, and later as Marquesses of Salisbury.

It's also worth noting that the surname Cecil has been modified in different cultures and languages, with Seacole or Seckel sometimes used among Dutch speakers, for example. While these may not be direct variants, they indicate how the name has been adapted over time and in different places.

Famous people with the name Cecil

• William Cecil: He was the first baron of Burghley and a trusted advisor to Queen Elizabeth I.
• Robert Cecil: Also known as the first Earl of Salisbury, he was a statesman and the son of William Cecil.
• Richard Cecil: He was an English Evangelical clergyman, theologian, and author.
• Lord David Cecil: A well-known British biographer, historian, and literary scholar recognized for his work on Victorian literature.
• Jonathan Cecil: He was an English theatre, film, and TV actor who was famous for his comedy roles.
• Dr. Henry Cecil: a famous British thoroughbred horse racing trainer.
• Lord Edward Cecil: A veteran of the British army who served in several colonial wars. He was the third son of the third Marquess of Salisbury.
• Algernon Cecil: A historian who served in the British army and authored several works on English political history.
• James Cecil: Also known as the 1st Marquess of Salisbury, he was an English nobleman and politician.
• Lord Hugh Cecil: A British politician and advocate of Zionism, he was a prominent member of the Conservative party.
• Robert Cecil Martin: An American software engineer and author, also known as "Uncle Bob".
• Thomas Cecil: The eldest son of William Cecil, he became the 1st Earl of Exeter.

Other surnames

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