The acquisition of surnames since the 11th century evolved through indigenous naming practices, such as caste and social structures. With the emergence of a more centralised administration, and society becoming more complex, the need for a more precise system of identification became essential. Surnames evolved to facilitate administrators in record keeping.

The English surname Dee is a variant of Dye and as such is of family origin. Surnames, also designated as family names, or alternatively a last name were added to a given, or baptismal name. This name was in many cases inherited and held collectively by members of a family group. Initially surnames identified one by connection to a family member foremost being the father. In this case the name means `the son of Dionisia' and is derived from the nickname `Dye'.

The earliest recorded references of the surname Dee or a variant appear to be found in English documents from at least the 14th century when Walter Dye was mentioned in the Court Rolls of the Manor of Wakefield, Yorkshire in 1316AD. Later in the century, Robertus Dy and Willelmus Dei were recorded in the Yorkshire Poll Tax in 1379. The Poll Tax, otherwise known as Octroi, was a tax levied by local authorities or commune on certain goods which entered the precincts of their authority. This form of tax of one shilling (10c) per person was introduced in early Roman times. In 1380 this levy led to a revolt as a uniform tax was imposed on each individual.

More recently, the marriage of Robert Dye and Elizabeth Treby was recorded at St Georges, Hanover Square in 1803 as was the marriage of Richard Dye and Ann Read in 1806. Late 19th century United States directories show that there were nine families with the surname Dye living in Philadelphia in 1885. The arms described below were granted to the astrologer, Dr John Dee, in 1576.

BLAZON OF ARMS Gules, a lion rampant or, within a bordure indented of the second.

CREST A lion sejant guardant or, holding in the dexter gamb a cross formee fitchee azure on the cross a label with the motto `Hic labor' and resting the sinister gamb or a pyramid argent, thereon the motto `Hic opus'.

ORIGIN England