Smythe

Smythe is a surname of English origin, a spelling variant of Smyth and Smith. The name is derived from the occupational term smith, referring to a metalworker such as a blacksmith. Early forms appeared in English records in the Middle Ages, reflecting the practical naming of individuals by their trade. Over the centuries, Smythe spread to Ireland and to the British colonies, and later to other parts of the world through migration and settlement. Today, Smythe is encountered in many English-speaking countries, with higher concentrations in the United Kingdom and Ireland and significant presence in North America and Australasia. As with related surnames, the spelling variation Smythe distinguishes families that may otherwise be connected to the common root Smith or Smyth. In modern contexts, bearers of the name have included people active in politics, science, the arts, and sport, among others. See also Smyth and Smith for related surname forms and disambiguation.