Surname Coile - Meaning and Origin

Coile: What does the surname Coile mean?

The surname Coile is of Irish origin and it appears to be an anglicized version of the Gaelic surname "Mac Coill", which means "son of the wood". This likely refers to families or individuals who historically lived near, worked in, or had some other significant connection to forests. Names often reflected the geographic area, profession, or distinguishing characteristic of families or individuals during the time when surnames began to be used. This surname may also be related to "Coyle", another anglicization of the same Gaelic name, or possibly other similar names in different cultures or regions. Variations of this surname, including different spellings or similar names, are found in many countries due to immigration and other historical events and trends. As with any surname, the specific meaning or origins can vary for different individuals or families with the name Coile, depending on their personal or family history.

Coile: Where does the name Coile come from?

The last name Coile is of Scottish origin. It is derived from the old Gaelic name "MacCoitir", a patronymic form of the personal name "Caitir", equivalent to the English 'Cotter'. The term "cotter" was used to refer to a serf or peasant farmer in the Middle Ages. It is a sept (related clan) of the Clan MacDonald of Sleat, from the Isle of Skye, Scotland.

Today, the last name Coile is most commonly found in the United States, particularly in the states of Georgia and North Carolina. There is also a significant presence of individuals with the Coile surname in Australia, Scotland, and to a lesser extent in England and Canada. Despite its Scottish origins, the name is not that common in Scotland, likely due to historical migrations and population movements over the centuries. It's important to note that variations of the name spelling, such as Coil, are also found in different regions. Generally, the distribution is widespread but not predominantly concentrated in any specific region.

Variations of the surname Coile

The surname Coile, predominantly found in the United States, appears to have variations in spelling and could potentially share its origin with several other surnames. Variations of the name could be Coil, Coile, Koile, Coiles, Coyl, and Coyle. Other less common variations such as Koyl, Coales, Coiley, and Coyley are also possible.

For example, Coyle is a popular Irish surname. It originates from the Gaelic Mac Giolla Chomhgaill, which means "the son of the follower of St. Comgal." The surname has been widespread throughout Ireland for centuries.

In Germany, the spelling Koile can be found and could potentially have the same origins as Coile.

Like most surnames, the variants have changed throughout time and location due to shifts in language and pronunciation. Therefore, while it's possible for these variants to share the same roots, it's also equally likely that they've developed independently due to regional dialects and migration patterns. To properly trace the lineage of a surname, individual genealogical research may be necessary.

Famous people with the name Coile

• Kacey Coile: Former disability rights advocate and author.
• Shannan Coile: American film and television actress.
• Charles H. Coile Jr: successful attorney who has argued cases in front of the Supreme Court.
• Steve Coile: American former professional basketball player from NCAA.
• Erik Coile: American former professional soccer player.
• B.J. Coile: USCG internationally recognized music educator.
• Jim Coile: Radio and television executive.
• David Coile: American business executive, entrepreneur and philanthropist.
• Kimberly Coile: American behavioral ecologist and professor at the University of Georgia.
• Teddy Coile: American photographer.

Other surnames

Coil