Smeeth Family History

From Middle English smēth(e) ‘smith’, a side form of Smith (1). From Middle English smethe ‘smithy forge’ (Old English smeðe), a side form of Smith (2) for someone who lived and worked at a blacksmith's or who lived in or came from a place so named, such as Smeeth and Smeed Farm in Hastingleigh (both in Kent).

Compare the synonymous Smithey. Occasionally, perhaps from Middle English smethe ‘flat or open place level’, for someone who lived on or by a level. Occasionally, perhaps from Middle English smethe ‘smooth calm gentle’ (Old English smeðe) for someone with smooth skin or hair or someone with a calm or gentle manner.

Compare Smibert; see also Smout.