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  Your Name and the history behind it!
  Names help distinguish one individual from another and in history names were created based on a person's relationship with another, their trade, where they lived, their appearance, etc.. Here we provide a list with the most common names in history.

Your Name Origin List, A-E

Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor's father.
Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated.
Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor.
Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits.
A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

A

ABDELMASEH (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Father of Maseh (=land surveyor)".

ABRAMS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. (Hebrew) "Father of a multitude".

ACEVEDO (Spanish). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Worker in a plantation of holly trees" (Spanish).

ACKERMAN (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Farmer (literally plot man)."

ACKROYD (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Dweller in the oak forest".

ADAMS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Adam (='red' in Hebrew)."

ADLAM (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Noble helmet" (Germanic).

ADRAIN (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "At the drain."

AHERN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Echtighearn".

AHLMAN (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. (German) "Slippery person or eel fisher".

ALAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Commonly derived from the term for a member of a nomadic Scythian tribe; in Scotland, derived from ail or stone.

ALBERT (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Noble bright" (Germanic).

ALDEN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Old friend."

ALEXANDER (British, others). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Defender of men" (Greek); often through the two Scottish kings.

ALGER (German). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. From Adal-gar, "noble spearman".

ALLARD (British;French) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. From Alah-hard (Germanic), "sacred or divine one".

ALLEN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Member of a nomadic Scythian tribe".

ALLY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'h-Ailche".

ALNOR (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "One who tests the strength of cloth."

ALTHERR (German). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Old lord" (German).

ALVAREZ (Spanish). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Alvar (=prudent)" (Spanish).

ALVEY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Elf war."

AMBROSE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Immortal" (Greek).

AMMON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Awe/terror protector" (Germanic).

AMMONS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Ammon."

AMOS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Carried" (Hebrew); a corruption of Amis.

ANDERSON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "MacAindris".

ANDERSON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Andrew."

ANDREW (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Manly" (Greek); through Saint Andrew.

ANDREWS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Manly Greek," the first-called disciple.

ANDREWS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "MacAindris".

ANTLEY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Short road formed at both ends".

APPLEBY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Apple farm" (Old English, Old Norse), places in England.

APPLETON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Apple farm," places in England.

AQUINO (Portuguese). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Of Italian origin" (Portuguese).

ARCHER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Bowman" (Old French), either for profession or skill.

ARENDELL (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Dwelling place".

ARGYLE (British). Possibly Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "from Argyle"; or, Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "in the service of the Earl of Argyle." Meaning of Argyle not known.

ARIS (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "From the city of Arras."

ARMBRISTER (German) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Crossbow" (Germanic).

ARMITAGE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Hermitage" (Old French), place in England.

ARMSTRONG (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Strong in the arm."

ARNOLD (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Eagle power" (Germanic), places in England.

ARTHUR (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Bear-guardian" (Greek); through the historical figure.

ASA (Hebrew). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. From Asa, "physician".

ASHBROOK (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Eastern brook," place in England.

ASHCROFT (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Croft in the ash trees", place in England.

ASHER (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. From Aescere, "dweller by a landmark ashtree".

ASHLEY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Ash-tree wood/glade/clearing," places in England.

ATKIN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Double-diminuitive of Adam.

ATKINS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Atkin."

ATKINSON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Adam (=red)".

ATTWOOD (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "At the wood."

AUFDERHEIDE (German). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "On the meadow or heath" (Germanic).

AUGUSTIN(E) (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Diminuitive of "Augustus" (=venerable, consecrated in Latin); through the two saints.

AUSTIN (British). Form of Augustin.

AVERY (British). Form of Alfred (which the Normans found hard to pronounce).

AVILA (Spanish) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "To watch, be viglant" or "capable, intelligent".

AYER (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Heir" (Old French).

AYKROYD (British). Form of Ackroyd.

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B

BACCUS (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Bakehouse".

BACHMEIER (German). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Brook farmer" (German).

BAGWELL (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Of Bagga's spring."

BAILEY (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Bailiff, crown official or keeper of a royal building".

BAIN (British). In England, Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "(Public) bath," for an attendant. In Scotland, "bone" in a northern dialect.

BALDING (German). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. From Baldo-lug (Germanic), "descendant of the young, bold one".

BALDWIN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Mulligan".

BALL (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Ball," as in 'as fat as a', or "bald" (literally balled; a ball being a bare patch); or Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Balle" (Old Norse).

BANAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Banain".

BANFF (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "MacanBhainbh".

BANNON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Banain".

BARKHOUSE (British). Form of Berghaus.

BARNES (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Of the barn (originally 'barley house')."

BARNETT (British) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Commerce,chaffering" or "trouble or fraud".

BARNEY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Barley/barn island," places in England.

BARRASS (German). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a form of the New Testament name "Barabass."

BARRINGTON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Barrain".

BARTGEN (German). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Barte=butcher or butcher's axe" (Germanic).

BARTHOLOMEW (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Talmai (='abounding in furrows')" (Hebrew).

BARTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Barley farm or farmyard".

BASTENDORF (German). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "(Saint?) Sebastian's town" (Germanic).

BATES (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Son of diminuitive of "Bartholomew"; or Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "boat(man)" with a Northern accent; or Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "profit, gain" (Old Norse).

BATESON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "MacPartholain".

BAUER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Farmer or peasant".

BAUGHMAN (German). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Brook, dweller on a brook" (Germanic).

BAUSTERT (German). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Bastard."

BEAL (British) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Handsome man".

BEALE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Baetheghaile".

BEASLEY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Bent grass, wood clearing".

BEATY (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Having many furrows, rich in land".

BECK (German). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Brook" (Germanic).

BECKERDITE (German). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Becker=baker" (Germanic).

BECKETT (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Little mouth/beak" (Old French), or Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Bee cottage (hive)," place in England.

BECKHAM (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Stream farm" (Old Norse + Old English).

BEDFORD (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Bede's ford".

BEERS (British). ). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Swine pasture" or "barley field."

BEEVER (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Place with a nice view".

BEIBER (German). Form of Bieber.

BEICH (German). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Slope (dweller)" (German).

BEICK (German). Form of Beich.

BEIKE (German). Form of Beich.

BELBECK, BULBECK (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Of the court or by the stream".

BELL (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Residence by the town bell".

BELL (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Beautiful, handsome" (Old French); or Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Bell-ringer"; or Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. diminuitive of Isabell.

BELLAM (British) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Handsome man".

BELLEW (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. (Normanic) "Lovely water".

BELZ (German). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Pelt, hide worker" (Germanic).

BENDER (British, German). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. In Britain, "Archer," from the bending of the bow; in Germany, "battle flag-bearing warrior" (Germanic).

BENEDICT (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Blessed" (Latin), often through the saint.

BENNETT (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. (Latin) "Blessed, from Benedict".

BENNINGTON (British). "Derivative of St. Benedict".

BENTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Place in the bent grass" or "bean farm," places in England.

BERGHAUS (German). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Town house" (Germanic).

BERGIN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Aimirgin".

BERNARD (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Bear brave" or "warrior brave" (Germanic).

BERRY (British). Form of Bury.

BERWICK (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Ciarmhaic".

BETHEL (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of (Welsh ap) Ithel", or diminuitive of "Elizabeth."

BETTS (British, German). Form of Betz, of a diminuitive of "Bertram" or "Bertelmew."

BETZ (German). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Young bear" (German).

BICKEL (German) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. From Bigo, "staff or long stick (an authority emblem)".

BIDDWELL (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "By spring or stream in a shallow valley."

BIEBER (German). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Beaver" (German), for industriousness.

BIGGAR (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Bearga".

BIGGS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Bigg (=big, strong)."

BIGNALL (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. Place in England.

BILLING (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Bill."

BILTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Bill's town."

BINGLEY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Clearing with a hollow".

BIRDWELL. Possibly a form of Biddwell.

BIRKBECK (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Stream in the birches" (Old Norse), place in England.

BISCHOFF (German). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Bishop" (Germanic).

BISHOP (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Bishop" - hopefully for one who worked in the house of a celebate bishop.

BISS (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Fine linen" (Greek through Old French), or "dull/brownish grey" (Old French).

BISSETT. Possibly a form of Biss.

BLACK (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Black haired, dark complexioned."

BLACKADDER (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Black, swift stream."

BLACKBURN (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Black stream".

BLAIR (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. From Blar (Gaelic), "plain or field".

BLAKE (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Pale"; or, an altered pronounciation of "Black."

BLAKEY (British) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Black haired".

BLANCHARD (French, British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "White," (Old French).

BLANKINSHIP (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Hope," or first eight letters may be an owner's name in the genitive (Welsh).

BLENCOW (British). Form of Blencowe.

BLENCOWE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Top of the hill" (Welsh).

BLIGH (British). Form of Blythe; or, Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "starer" (Old Norse).

BLIGHE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Blighe".

BLYTH(E) (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Cheerful, gentle"; or, Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "land of gentle/pleasant streams," places in England.

BODEMAN (German). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Adherent of the royal messenger" (German).

BODEN (German). Form of Bodeman.

BODEN (German, Dutch). "Bold friend" (Flemish).

BOGGS (British). ). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Bog" (Irish).

BOHAM (British). Possibly a form of Bonham.

BOLAND (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Beollain".

BOLDTHAUS (German). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "House of the bold one" (Germanic).

BOLTINGHOUSE. Anglicized form of Boldthaus.

BOLTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Place with houses/huts, center of a village," places in England.

BONDS (British). ). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Peasant, serf."

BONHAM (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Good man" (Old French).

BONIFACE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Good fate" (Latin); through saints and popes of the same name.

BONNER (British) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Gentle, gracious, courteous".

BOOTH (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Hut, shed, shelter" (Old Norse).

BOREN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. From O'Bodhrain (Gaelic), "Descendant of the deaf one" BORISOV (Russian). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Boris."

BOSCH (German). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Bush, brush, branch" (Germanic).

BOSCH (Spanish). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Forest, woodland, grove, thicket".

BOSTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "(Saint) Botulf's stone," place in England.

BOUCHER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Butcher" (Old French).

BOURNS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "MacConboirne".

BOWDEN (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. Many places are called Bowden, "Curved hill" or "above the hill".

BOWEN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Owen."

BOWES (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Bow (='arch, vault')."

BOWIE (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Yellow-haired" (Scots Gaelic).

BOWLES (British) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. ). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Heavy drinker" or "maker/seller of bowls".

BOWMAN (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Bowman, archer."

BOWSER (German) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Bolster" (Germanic).

BOYCE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Wood" (Old French); or from a Germanic name meaning "boy, servant."

BOYD (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Yellow-haired" (Scots Gaelic).

BOYLE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Descendant of Having Profitable Pledges" (Irish).

BRABAZON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Man from Brabant (=wooded territory)" (Old French). This name is associated with 13th-century French thugs.

BRACKEEN (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Bracken (=a swampy area)."

BRADBURY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Fort made of boards/planks".

BRADFORD (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Broad ford," places in England.

BRADLEY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Broad clearing," name of many places in England.

BRADNER (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Bruadair".

BRADSHAW (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. Places in England.

BRAGG (British). "Proud arrogant;brisk, brave" (Celtic).

BRAHAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Brachain".

BRANDON (British). ). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Hill covered with broom."

BRANDT (German). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Living in an area cleared by a fire" (German).

BRATTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Newly cultivated (broken-up) farm," places in England.

BRAY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Breadhdha".

BREEDLOVE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. From Braed-hloew, "broad hill".

BREEN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Originally O Breen - "Descendant of Sorrowful."

BRENT (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "High place" (Celtic); or, "steep" (Old English).

BRESLIN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Brislain".

BRETTIN (German). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Brett=pretzel maker or board" (Germanic).

BREWER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Brewer."

BREWSTER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Brewer".

BREWSTER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Brewer, especially a female brewer."

BRICKIN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "MacGilliBriein".

BRIEN (British). ). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. For O Brien - "son of 'hill'-something" (Irish).

BRIGHAM (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Homestead by a bridge" (Old English scandinavized), places in England.

BRIGHT (British) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Bright, handsome".

BRIN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Birn".

BRINE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Brien".

BRINKMAN (British) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. The one who lived over by the grassy knoll or was on the edge of the creek. In later parlance the name took on the meaning of an expert statesman practicing "Brinkmanship.".

BRISBANE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Break-bone."

BRIUN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Beirne".

BROCK (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Badger," for foul-smelling; or, Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "young stag" (Old French); or Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. from "brook/rivermeadow."

BRODER(ICK) (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Bruadair".

BRODY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Broduibh".

BROGAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Brogain".

BROGHIE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Breithe".

BROOK (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Brook."

BROOKS (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. Has as many origins as there are streams.

BROTHERS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Bruadair".

BROTHERS. (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Brother" (Old Norse); or "son of a kinsman."

BROWN (British) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Brown haired/skinned".

BROWN(E) (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Brown-haired, brown-skinned" (Old English, Old French).

BROWNING (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Diminuitive of "Brown."

BROWNSMITH (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Copper/brass smith."

BRUCE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. Originally from a place in Normandy.

BRUGH (German). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. Comes from Brucke, meaning "bridge" (German).

BRYANT (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "A parasitic dental as in Hammond and varmint" (Celtic).

BUCHAN (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Calf and little hut" (Scots Gaelic).

BUCKET(T) (British). Form of Duckett.

BUCKMAN (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Goat/stag keeper".

BUDGE (British) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Person with a large mouth or someone who talks too much".

BUEHLER (German). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Scrub covered marsh" (Germanic).

BULLOCK (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Bullock (castrated bull)."

BUNCH (British) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. From Bun, "ready and alert one".

BURCHETT (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Dweller by the birch grove or fort hardy".

BURDICK (British)Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Girl, maiden".

BURGESS (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Citizen, freeman" (Old French; same root as bourgeois).

BURLESON (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Son of a butler".

BURNS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Conboirne".

BURROWS (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Of the fort/manor".

BURT (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Bright, handsome."

BURTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Manor house enclosure" or "fortified farm".

BURY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "(At the) fort/manor."

BUSBY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Small farm with bushes on it" (Old Norse), place in England.

BUSHFIELD (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Field of bushes."

BUSSEY (British)Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Talkitive person or a gossiper" (Italian).

BUTTERY (British)Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Someone with a booming voice".

BUTTON (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Button maker".

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CACERAS (Spanish). `Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. Place founded by Quinto Cecilio Metelo.

CAIN(E) (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Caen (=field of combat)" (Gaulish); or, Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Beautiful" (Welsh), possibly after St. Keyne; or, Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of warrior" (Manx).

CALDWELL (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Cold spring/stream," places in England.

CALLAGHAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Ceallachain".

CAMDEN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Camdhain".

CAMERON (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Crooked nose" (Scots Gaelic).

CAMPBELL (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Crooked mouth" (Scots Gaelic).

CANADA (Native American, British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. ). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "place of gathering"; or from Cinneide (Gaelic), "son of the helmeted one".

CANNING (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "MacConin".

CANNON (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Canon, member of the communal house of clergy" (Old French).

CANTWELL (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Cant=unidentified place; well=stream".

CAPPS (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Maker/seller of caps."

CAREY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Ciardha".

CARLTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Farmer's farmstead/village," places in England.

CARMACK (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. From Cormaig (Gaelic), "charioteer".

CARMAN (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Male person" (Old Norse).

CARMICHAEL (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Fort of Michael," place in Scotland.

CARPENTER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Carpenter," (Old French).

CARR (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Marsh, wet ground" (Old Norse), places in England.

CARREY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Pleasant stream".

CARROLL (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Brave in fighting" (Irish).

CARSON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "MacCarrghanma".

CARTER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Maker/driver of carts."

CARTLEDGE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. Place in England.

CARVER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Sculptor."

CASE (British). Form of Cass.

CASEY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Cathasaigh".

CASH (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Maker of boxes".

CASH (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "MacGillaChaise".

CATLEY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Gathlaoich".

CATTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Wild cats' valley".

CAUDLE (British). Form of Caldwell.

CAVANESS (British) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Cav=bald".

CAYLEY (British). `Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Caolloaidhe".

CERVENY (Czech). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Red," for hair or skin (Czech).

CHADWICK (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Wick of Saint Chad," places in England.

CHAIN. Form of Chaney.

CHAMBERS (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Of the chamber or private attendent of the king".CHANCE (British) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Inveterate gambler, someone who has survived by good luck".

CHANDLER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Maker or seller of candles, etc.," (Old French).

CHANEY (British). Form of Chesnay.

CHAPMAN (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Merchant, trader."

CHARLTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Place of the free-peasants/villeins," places in England.

CHASE (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Hunt," (Old French) for a hunter.

CHASTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Chestnut tree" (Old French).

CHERITON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Church farm," places in England.

CHESNEY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Oak grove," places in France.

CHESTERFIELD (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Open land by a Roman site," place in England.

CHETTLE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Deep valley locked in hills (literally kettle, cauldron)."

CHETWOOD (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Wood wood" (British + Old English), place in England.

CHILD (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Youth awaiting knighthood, page"; or Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "spring."

CHRISTIAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Christian" (Latin).

CLANCY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. (Form of O'Clancy) "Son of Ruddy Warrior" (Irish).

CLARKE (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Cleric, clerk, scholar."

CLAY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Place with clay."

CLAYTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Place in the clay, place with good clay for pottery".

CLEARY (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Descendant of the clerk" (Irish).

CLEAVER (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Cliff, slope, river bank".

CLEGHORN (British) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. From Claeg-horn, "clay horn".

CLEMENTS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Clement ('mild, merciful' in Latin)."

CLEWES (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "At the clough (=ravine, deep valley)."

CLEWLY (British). Form of Clewes.

CLIFFORD (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Ford at the cliff."

CLIFTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Place on a cliff".

CLINE (German). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. From Klein, "small" (German).

CLOOS (German). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Form of Nicholas.

CLOSKY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "MacBlosky".

COAD (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Cobbler" or "cobbler's wax".

COALMAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Clumain".

COBB (British). Form of Jacob.

COBURN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "From a personal name".

COCHRANE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Red brook(?)," place in Scotland.

COCK (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Cockerel" or "fatty"; or "red" (Welsh). Could also be Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "heap, haycock."

COCKANE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "MacCiochain".

COCKS (British). Son of Cock.

COCKWELL (British)Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "A natural leader, someone who is as proud as a cock, or a fat and lumpy man".

COE (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Jackdaw" (Old Norse/Old English).

COFFEE (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Descendant of Victorous" (Irish).

COFFEY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Chobhthaigh".

COFFREN (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Maker of boxes/chests".

COHEN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Caomhain".

COLBY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. From Cald-byr (Anglo-Norse), "cold settlement".

COLCLOUGH (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Ravine".

COLE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Diminuitive of Nicholas; or, Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "coal-black, swarthy."

COLE (British)Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Coal, black, swarthy or top-knot, crown of the head".

COLEMAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Columain".

COLLIER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Charcoal burner/seller".

COLLIN(G)S (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Coilen".

COLLINGSWORTH (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. From Kol-Ing-Worth, "dark one's farmstead".

COLLINS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. In England, double diminuitive of "Nicholas." In Ireland, derived from "O Cullane (=son of Whelp?)."

COLLIS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Coll (coal, black, swarthy or top-knot, crown of the head)".

COLSTON (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Charcoal and stone burner/seller".

COLTHAR (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Colt herder".

COLVILLE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Col=someone of swarthy appearance; Ville=settlement" (German).

COMPTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Short straight valley and enclosure".

CONANT (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Originally O Conant - "Descendant of Young Exalted." CONNET (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. Form of Conant.

CONEELY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "MacConghaola".

CONLAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "MacConluain".

CONNAUGHTAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Connachtain".

CONNELL (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Conaill".

CONNERY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Maoilchonaire".

CONNOLLY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Conall, high mighty".

CONNOLLY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Conghaile".

CONNOLLY (British) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Valiant" (Gaelic).

CONVERY (British)Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Fierceness" (Gaelic).

CONWAY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Conaighain".

CONWAY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Connowe".

CONWAY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. A town in North Wales.

CONYERS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Conor".

CONYNGHAM (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Conagan".

COOGAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. From O'Cuagain (Gaelic), "descendant of the young, awkward one".

COOGAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Comhghain".

COOK(E) (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Cook."

COOLAHAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Culaghaine".

COOMBER (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Valley in the flank of a hill" or "short valley running up from the sea."

COONAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Cuanain".

COOPER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Barrel/bucket maker" (Middle English/Germanic/Low Latin).

COPELAND (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Bought land."

COPP (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Hilltop (literally 'head of hill')."

COPPINGER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. From "Copener (=merchant?)" (Danish).

CORBETT (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Cornain".

CORBETT (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Black hair" (Old French).

CORCORAN (British) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Red/ purple faced".

CORDLE (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Maker of cord and string, or a weaver of ribbons" (French).

CORMACK (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "The son of the chariot".

CORNELL (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. An altered form of either Cornwall, Cornwell or Cornhill (all places in England).

CORR (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Anglicized form of "O'Corra (descendant of Spear)" (Irish).

CORREA (Spanish) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Leather belt".

CORRELL (British). "Enclosed property."

COSGRAVE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "MacOscar".

COSTELLO (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Jocelyn" (Irish).

COSTELLO (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "MacOscar".

COTTER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Son of Terrible Army".

COTTERELL (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. Diminuitive of "Cottager" (Old French).

COTTLE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Coitil".

COTTRELL (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. Form of Cotterell.

COULSON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Cole."

COVELL (British). Of French origin and introduced at time of Norman Conquest in 1066. Derives from one of three small towns in Normandy called Colleville.

COWEN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Caomhain".

COX (British). Form of Cocks.

COYNE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Cain".

CRABTREE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Crab-apple tree" (Middle English).

CRAFTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Place where wild saffron grows."

CRANSTON (British) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Cran=crane, long legged".

CRAWCOUR (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Heart breaker (literally break heart)" (Old French); or Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. from Crevecouer, France, so named after the dismay of civilians at local fighting.

CRAWFORD (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Ford with crows," places in Scotland and England.

CREAGH (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Branch," (Irish) for one who weilded a branch against the Vikings at Limerick.

CREASE (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Elegant, dainty."

CREEDAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Criadhen".

CRIBBAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Cribbain".

CRIDDLE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "The believer's valley."

CRISP (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Curly" (Anglicized Latin).

CRITCHLEY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Dweller at the clearing with a cross.".

CRITTALL (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Derived from Crit Hall in Benenden, Kent".

CRITTLE (British). Form of Criddle.

CROCKER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Crockery maker, potter."

CROFT (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Arable enclosure adjoining a house".

CROOKHAM (British)Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. ). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "A cripple or a hunchback" or "someone living in the bent of the road".

CROSBY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "MacCrossan".

CROSBY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Village/farm with crosses" (Old Norse), places in England.

CROSSMAN (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Living by the market or crossroads" or )Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "angry man".

CROWL (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Curly, winding".

CROWLEY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Wood/clearing with crows."

CROWTHER (British). ). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Player of the crouth, an ancient type of fiddle."

CRUDEN (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Of Cru Dane," place in Scotland from which invading Danes were repelled.

CULLEEN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Gilin".

CULLEN (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Cologne/colony" (Old French/Latin); or, "at the back of the river" (Scots Gaelic).

CULLEN (British). In Scotland and Ireland, Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Conn"; in England, Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "From (town of) Cunningham."

CULLIN (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Colony".

CULPEPPER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Pepper culler".

CUMBERLAND (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Land of the Britons and Cymry (Welsh)" (Old Welsh).

CUMMING (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Crooked, bent" (Irish); also has roots in Brittany.

CUMMINS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Crooked/bent".

CUMMINS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Cumin".

CUNDALL (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Valley valley" (Old English and Old Norse), place in England.

CUNNINGHAM (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Connaghain".

CUNNINGHAM (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Milk pails", place in England.

CUPP (American). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Head," (German). Alternate forms KUPP, KOPP, etc.

CURRIE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Cauldron (for a ravine)," place Scotland (Scots Gaelic).

CURRIN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "MacCarrain".

CURTIS (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Courteous, educated, well-bred" (Old French); or, "short hose, stockings, breeches" (Old French, Germanic).

CUSACK (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Roman personal name, Cussac".

CUSKLEY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "MacGillicuskly".

CUTHBERTSON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of famous bright" (Germanic); often after the saint.

CYRUS (Persian) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. From Kurush, "the sun".

CZYZ (Polish). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Greenfinch" (Polish).

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DABIN (French). ). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Diminuitive of Dabb (a diminuitive of Robert).

DACK (British). Possibly a form of Dacre.

DACRE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Dropping, trickling stream" (Gaelic), place in England.

DALE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Valley, dale" (Old English, Old Norse).

DALTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Dale farm," places in England.

DALY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. From O'Dalaigh (Gaelic), "descendant of the frequenter of assemblies".

DALY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Meeting or assembly" (Gaelic).

DANCER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Professional dancer" (Old French).

DANCY (British). Possibly a form of Dancer.

DANGERFIELD (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Of Angerville" (Old French, Old Norse).

DANIEL(L) (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "God has judged" (Hebrew).

DARCY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Dorchaidhe".

DARKE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Dorchaidhe".

DARWIN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Dear friend."

DAVEE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Lullaby word for darling or friend".

DAVID (Universal). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Originally "darling," later "friend" (Hebrew), through Old Testament king, or the patron saint of Wales, or one of two Scottish kings.

DAVIDSON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of David".

DAVIES (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of David" - Davies is the typical Welsh spelling.

DAVIS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "A lullaby word, darling then friendly".

DAVIS (British). English form of Davies.

DAWSON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of (diminuitive) David."

DAY (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Dairymaid/dairyman/kneader." This is not a short form; 'dairy' is actually 'day-ry' (=place of the kneaders)."

DE WOLFE (British) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Wolf".

DEACON (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Servant" (Greek).

DEAN (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Valley".

DEANLY (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Chief of ten" (Latin).

DEAR (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Dear," or "brave," or "deer-like."

DEATH (Belgian, British). In Britain, Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Death," possibly for one who played this role in plays. In Belgium, Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "from (town of) Ath" (French).

DELANY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Descendant of black River Slaine (=safe)" (Irish); or, Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "of the alder grove" (Old French).

DELL (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Dweller in a dell."

DEMPSEY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Descendant of Proud" (Irish).

DENMAN (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Dane-man," for a Dane.

DENNY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Duineadhaigh".

DENTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Valley place".

DERRICK (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Deirg".

DESROSIER (French). "The flowers."

DEVANY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Duanmhaigh".

DEVEREUX (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Of Evreux (place named after Keltic tribe Eburovices or 'dwellers on the River Ebura')" (Old French).

DEVLIN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. From O'Dobhailein (Gaelic), "descendant of the valorous and boisterous one".

DEXTER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Dyer." (once referred only to females dyers)

DIAMOND (British) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Unconquerable, hard stone".

DIARMID (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Duibhdiorma".

DICKERMAN (German). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Ditch digger" or Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "dyke dweller."

DIEDERICH (German). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Folk rule" (German).

DIETZ (German). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Diedrich" (German).

DILLON (British). ). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Dillo (='destroy')" (Germanic).

DINEEN (British) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Descendant of Duinnin, meaning dark brown" (Gaelic).

DINGELHOFF (Dutch). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. Dutch form of Dungelhoeff.

DIXON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Discin".

DIXON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Richard."

DOERNER (German). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. From one of many German towns beginning with "Dorn".

DONALD (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "World mighty" (Scots Gaelic).

DONASCIMENTO (Brazilian). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Of Birth".

DONEY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Duineadhaigh".

DONNE (British)Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. ). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Dull brown, dark, swarthy". Or, in Ireland "Son of Brown".

DONNELLY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Dunghaile".

DONOGHUE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Donchadha".

DONOVAN (British). For O Donovan -- "descendant of Dark Brown" (Irish).

DOODY. Jewish(?) diminuitive of David.

DORAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Decendent of Exile/stranger".

DORMER (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Sleeper, lazybones" (Old French). DOUGHERTY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Descendant of Obstructive, Stern" (Irish).

DORN (German). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Thorn, thicket" (Germanic).

DORSETT (British) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Pebbles and dwellers".

DOUGLAS (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Black water, dark stream" (Scots Gaelic), places in England and Scotland.

DOUTHIT (British). Form of Dowthwaite.

DOWDALL (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Descendant of Black" (Irish).

DOWNEY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Down hill".

DOWTHWAITE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. Place in England.

DOYLE (British). ). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Dark stranger, foreigner" (Irish) - probably applied to a Viking.

DRESCHER (Austria,Germany) "Thresher of wheat" (Germanic).

DRINKWATER (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Drink water," said either of those too poor to drink ale, or sarcastically of drunkards, or in reference to diabetes.

DRISCOLL (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Descendant of Interpreter" (Irish).

DRUM(MOND) (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Drum".

DRUMMOND (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Ridge" (Scots Gaelic), places in Scotland.

DRURY (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Love affair, love token" (Old French).

DUCKETT (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Little duke."

DUFF (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Black, dark" (Irish and Scots Gaelic).

DUGAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Duibhagain".

DULLERAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Duibhleargain".

DUNCAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Brown warrior" (Irish and Scots Gaelic).

DUNGAN (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Someone who lives on raised land surrounded by marsh" (German).

DUNGELHOEFF (German). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "On/near a small hill" (German).

DUNKIN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Duinchinn".

DUNLOP (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Muddy hill" (Scots Gaelic).

DUNN (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Brown, dark, swarthy."

DUNPHY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Donchadha".

DURACK (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Possibly a modern form of the ancient Irish name "O'Duibhraic".

DURHAM (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Hill peninsula" (Old English + Old Norse).

DURLING (British). Form of Darling.

DUTTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Enclosure, settlement".

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E

EARLEY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Ploughing field"; often corrupted to "Early."

EARNSHAW (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Shaw with eagles".

EASON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. From Esne-sone, "servant's son".

EATON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "River/island farm," name of many places in England.

EBERSPACHER (German). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Boar brook" (German).

ECCLES (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Church" (Old Welsh/Irish, from Latin), name of places in England.

ECCLESTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Church farm" (Welsh/Irish).

ECKLES (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Church".

ED(D)INGTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Wasteland hill," place in Wiltshire; or "place belonging to Blessed Friend/Blessed Joy," place in Somerset; or "place of the folk of Ida," place in Northumberland.

EDELSTON (British)Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Lowest order of free citizen" (German).

EDGELL (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Park/pasture clearing".

EDMUND (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Prosperity/happiness protector"; Saint Edmund.

EDWARD (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Prosperity/ happiness friend".

EDWARDS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Edward".

EGAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Originally McEgan -- "son of Hugh" (Irish).

EGGLESTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Eggle=from first name Eegel; ston=enclosure".

EICHHAMMER (Austrian, German). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "(User of an) oak hammer."

EKELMANN (German) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Ekel=disgust" (Germanic).

ELCOMBE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Valley of a man named Ella" or "Elder Valley".

ELIAS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Greek form of the Hebrew name Elijah (="Yahweh is God").

ELISS (British). Form of Elias.

ELKINS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of (diminuitive) Elias."

ELLEN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Helen (=bright)" (Greek); Saint Helen.

ELLENBERGER (German). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. From the town of Ellenberg, Germany.

ELLERSHAW (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Someone living by an alder tree" (German).

ELLIOT (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Noble war" or "mound, back".

ELLIOT (British). Diminuitive of Elias.

ELLZEY (German). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. From Elzee, Germany.

ELMORE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "River bank with elms".

ELMORE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "River-bank with elms," place in England.

ELSTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Everlasting enclosure".

ELSTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Elf stone", "old stone" or "temple stone."

ELSWORTH (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Elli=a place in Cambridgeshire; worth=enclosure".

ELY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Eel district," place in England.

EMERSON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Emery (=industrious)."

EMERY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Work rule" (German).

EMMETT (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Whole/universal" (Germanic).

ENGLAND (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "From the country of the Angles," who came from an angle-shaped area of Holstein.

ENGLE (German) Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. From Engilo (Germanic), "young hero".

ENOCH (British)Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. From Hhanakh (Hebrew), "dedicated one".

EPPERSON (British). Derived from Epps.

EPPS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of the wild boar."

ERWIN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Wild boar friend."

ESSIG (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Vinegar".

EVANS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Evan."

EVERSON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Ever (=boar)."

EVERTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Wild-boar place," name of places in England.

EYE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Island," name of places in England.

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