The Popjoy surname is derived from the Old French word "papegai," which meant "parrot." There were archery contests in the Middle Ages where bowmen shot at a wooden parrot or "popinjay" on a pole, and as such the term also came to be used for a winner, in sports.
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Early Origins of the Popjoy family
The surname Popjoy was first found in Staffordshire where they held a family seat as Lords of the Manor. The Saxon influence of English history diminished after the Battle of Hastings in 1066. The language of the courts was French for the next three centuries and the Norman ambience prevailed.
Early History of the Popjoy family
This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Popjoy research. Another 108 words (8 lines of text) covering the years 1321, 1371, 1397, 1410, 1455 and 1487 are included under the topic Early Popjoy History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
Popjoy Spelling Variations
Spelling variations of this family name include: Papinjay, Pabjay, Papjay, Pobjoy, Pebjoy, Pobgee, Popejoy, Popjoy, Pobgee, Papigay, Popjoy, Popingay and many more.
Early Notables of the Popjoy family
More information is included under the topic Early Popjoy Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.