Cecil
A Norman surname, probably from a place-name in Normandy, later reshaped by a famous Elizabethan statesman into its modern spelling.
The #3,004 most common surname in the United States (2010 Census) — about 1 in every 25,856 Americans shares it.
Etymology
The surname is generally taken to be Norman in origin, linked by early writers to a place in Normandy called Sees/Sées. Medieval spellings varied widely, including forms such as Sitsilt, Sicelt, Seycil, Seisil, and Cyssell, before the modern spelling became fixed. Some 19th-century writers connected the name with the Roman Caecilii because William Cecil, Lord Burghley, liked that learned spelling, but that is usually treated as a later reshaping rather than the true origin.
History
The family is said to be traceable in England by the late 11th century, with one early bearer recorded in connection with the conquest of Glamorgan. The spelling Cecil was popularized in the Tudor period by William Cecil, Lord Burghley, who reportedly adopted it under the impression that the family was descended from the Roman Caecilii. Because of that prestige, the modern form spread and became standard.
Origin
Regions
Variant spellings
Fun fact
Lord Burghley’s spelling choice helped turn an older, irregularly written Norman name into the familiar modern Cecil.
From the historical record
“CECIL Holy Roman Empire ; v. Kaiser and Caesar. ' ' of Jacob a star shall spryng That shall overcom Kasar and Kyng.' TownlcY Mysteries. * Kynges and Knygntea, Kaysers and Pipes'* Rere Plowman.”
— A Dictionary of English and Welsh Surnames (alternate scan)