Wagstaff

Wagstaff is an English surname of occupational origin, derived from the Old English words 'waggen' (to wag, shake) and 'stæf' (staff, pole). It likely referred to someone who carried a staff or standard, possibly in a ceremonial capacity, as a shepherd, or even a jester. The 'wagging' aspect could imply the movement of the staff, perhaps a banner or flag, or the person's gait while carrying it. The earliest records of the surname appear in Yorkshire and Lancashire in the 13th and 14th centuries.

Over time, like many occupational surnames, Wagstaff became hereditary. While primarily a surname, it has occasionally been used as a given name, particularly as a middle name or a more unusual first name, contributing to its 'unisex' classification, though it remains far more common as a surname. Its usage as a given name is rare and often reflects a family surname being passed down.