English Place-name Society

Survey of English Place-Names

A county-by-county guide to the linguistic origins of England’s place-names – a project of the English Place-Name Society, founded 1923.

Virworthy

Early-attested site in the Parish of Pancrasweek

Historical Forms

  • Fereordin, Fereurdi 1086 DB
  • Firaworthi 1313 Exon
  • Vireworth(y) 1316 FA
  • Veraworthy 1350 Ipm

Etymology

Probably 'farther farm,' as suggested by Blomé (151). v. worþig , worþign .The place is at the extreme north end of the parish and the adjective may have reference to its position in relation to Hamsworthy which is nearer Pancrasweek village.