Nightingale Name Origin, Meaning and Family History

Nightingale Name Meaning: From Middle English nighti(n)gale (Old English nihtegal, from niht ‘night’ + galan ‘sing’).

The name is of Anlgo-Saxon origin and more than likely given as a nickname, for someone with a good,sweet or harmonious voice. The most famous bearer was Florence Nightingale (1820-1910),\"the Lady of the Lamp\".

Discover how your Nightingale ancestors earned their living and spread across the country. Find out more about your family history by using the Free Search box.

Surname Distribution

Census frequency by county

Name Concentrations Within England and Wales

Nightingale Surname Statistics


Top Professions for the Nightingale family

Profession Census Frequency
Agricultural Labourer 109
Female Servant 94
Independent 65
Farmer 48
Labourer 45
Cotton Weaver 33
Weaver 29
Male Servant 20
Shoe Maker 15
Dress Maker 14
Carpenter 13
Tailor 13
Nail Maker 9
Servant 9
Gardener 8
Publican 8
Independant 8
Ag Lab 8
Milliner 8
Butcher 8
Grocer 8
Spinner 7
Lace Maker 7
Brick Layer 6
Brewer 6

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