Dandy Name Meaning, Facts & Family History

Facts About the Surname Dandy

Here are some facts about the surname Dandy:
- Dandy is an English surname that originally referred to a man who placed a high value on appearance, cleanliness, and fashion. It became a popular term in the early 19th century.
- Notable people with the surname Dandy include British surgeon Walter Dandy (1886-1946) who pioneered techniques in neurosurgery, and American football player Jim Dandy (born 1954) who played in the NFL.
- The name Dandy is thought to derive from the Old French word "dand", meaning to walk with a swagger or bounce in one's step. This evolved into "dandy" meaning a man who dressed elaborately.
- Dandy appears in literature including in the titular character of Joseph Conrad's 1900 novel Lord Jim, and the character Algernon Moncrieff in Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest.
- As a surname, Dandy is relatively uncommon. In the United Kingdom, the 1881 census recorded fewer than 1000 individuals with the last name Dandy. Recent statistics show it remains a rare surname today.
- Some genealogists have traced the surname back to the village of Danby in North Yorkshire, England. Danby dates back to the Domesday Book of 1086 where it was listed as "Dandebi".
- Spelling variations include Dandy, Dandie, Dandi, Dandey, Dane, Daine, Dayne, Dawney, and Dawny. It may have originated as a nickname referencing a man's interest in fashion.
- In the US, the Dandy surname is concentrated in the southeast - in states like Georgia, Florida, and the Carolinas. However, it is still considered very rare.

All People Whose Last Name is "Dandy"