Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Help
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • Start a New Tree
      • Person Preview
      • Membership
      • Family Trees Support
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Voter Lists
      • Birth, Marriage & Death
      • Military
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Directories & Member Lists
      • Public Member Trees
      • Convict, Criminal, Land & Wills
      • Member Search
      • Card Catalogue
      Loading
      • StoryScout
      Loading
      • Buy a DNA Kit
      • Register a Kit
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • About Us
      • Ancestry Blog
      • Gift Memberships
      • Site Map
      • © 2006-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Cookies
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Savill

      Origin

      French, Norman origin

      Meaning

      From the old French, meaning "little savior" or "to save."

      Variations

      Saville, Savile, Sevilla
      The name "Savill" is of English origin and is considered a variant of the surname "Saville." It is believed to have originated from the Old French personal name "Saville," which itself is derived from the Latin "Sabinus," meaning "of the Sabines," a group of ancient Italic people. The name is often associated with geographical locations, as surnames in England frequently derived from place names. Savill may refer to various places in England, particularly in Yorkshire where the name is historically prevalent.

      The meaning of Savill is closely tied to its etymological roots. The Sabines played a significant role in early Roman history, and the name suggests a connection to this ancient heritage. The name has evolved over time, with variations appearing in different regions and communities, reflecting the linguistic and cultural shifts within England. The transition from "Saville" to "Savill" may also indicate regional dialectical influences or phonetic changes that occurred as the name spread across England.

      Culturally, the name Savill has been embraced in various contexts, including literature and the arts. The surname has appeared in historical documents, land records, and genealogical studies, indicating the presence of families bearing the name in different parts of England. The name's association with nobility can be traced back to its usage among landowners and gentry during the medieval period, a time when surnames became more established as identifiers of lineage and property.

      Historically, notable mentions of the name Savill can be found in various records, including the Domesday Book of 1086, where early forms of the name are believed to have been recorded. The name has also been linked to several estates and manors, particularly in Yorkshire, where the Savill family held lands. Throughout the centuries, the Savill name has been associated with local history and heritage, contributing to the understanding of regional identities in England.

      In contemporary times, while the name Savill may not be as widely recognized as some other surnames, it has been borne by individuals who have made notable contributions in various fields. For example, the name is associated with the Savill Garden, a renowned botanical garden located in Windsor Great Park, which was established by Sir Eric Savill in the mid-20th century. This garden has become a place of cultural significance, attracting visitors and serving as a site for horticultural education.

      Additionally, the name Savill has appeared in modern contexts through various individuals in the arts, business, and academia, although they may not be as widely recognized on a global scale. The legacy of the name persists in its connections to heritage, land, and community, reflecting the evolution of English surnames and their meanings over time.

      Overall, the name Savill carries with it a rich tapestry of historical, cultural, and genealogical significance, serving as a reminder of the complexities of naming traditions in England. While not extensively documented in contemporary popular culture, the name's historical roots and connections to place and identity contribute to its enduring legacy.

      Based on our records...

      Coombs

      This is the most common surname associated with Savill.

      Olivia

      This is the most common name of those married to a Savill.

      John

      This is the most common name for a child of a Savill.

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1832 is when there were the most people born with the first name Savill.

      Explore the origins of another name.