Surname · English origin
White
Meaning
The surname White means Fair-haired or pale.
Origin
English
Type
descriptive
Variants
1
The origin of the surname White
White described someone with fair hair or a pale complexion.
What kind of surname is White?
White is a descriptive surname, originally describing a physical or personal characteristic. It belongs to the English naming tradition — you can read how English surnames were formed on our English last names page.
Variants & spellings of White
You may also see this surname written as:
- Whyte
Other English surnames
Other descriptive surnames
Family names formed the same way, from different cultures.
Frequently asked questions
What does the surname White mean?
The surname White means Fair-haired or pale. White described someone with fair hair or a pale complexion.
Where does the surname White come from?
White is a surname of English origin.
What kind of surname is White?
White is a descriptive surname, originally describing a physical or personal characteristic.
What are other spellings of White?
Variant spellings of White include Whyte.
What are other English surnames?
Other English surnames include Bailey, Baker, Brown, Chapman, Clarke, Cook.