Origin and Meaning of Hathaway

Hearth enclosure or dwelling by a heath

Origin: Old English - The name Hathaway comes from the Old English 'haeth' meaning 'heath' and 'weg' meaning 'way' or 'dwelling.' It often signifies a location, specifically a homestead located near a heath.

• Hathaway is often recognized as a surname, most famously associated with the birthplace of William Shakespeare's wife, Anne Hathaway, in Shottery, England.
• In addition to being used as a surname, Hathaway has gained attention as a given name, particularly in modern culture influenced by celebrity figures.
• Notable bearers of the name include actress Anne Hathaway, known for her roles in 'Les Misérables', 'The Princess Diaries', and 'The Dark Knight Rises'.
• Hathaway is relatively uncommon as a first name but has seen a rise in popularity in the 21st century, possibly influenced by celebrity naming trends.
• Variations of the name include Hatheway and Hathoway, though these are less commonly used.