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  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, M-R

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

M

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

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

MACDERMOTT (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".

MACE(Y) (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Diminuitive of "Thomas" or "Matthew."

MACGERAGHTY (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-Heraghty".

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

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

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

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

MACKES (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. Old Irish form of the Old Norse name "Magnus (=great)".

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

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

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

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

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

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

MAGETTIGAN (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-Eitegein".

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

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

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

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

MAGNER (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. From Maingneir (Gaelic), "son of the strong warrior".

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

MAGUIRE (British). Form of McGuire.

MAHAFFEY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. From Mac-Dhuibhshithe (Gaelic), "son of the dark, peaceful one".

MAHER (British). Form of Meagher.

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

MAIDEN (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "For a cissy."

MAIDMAN (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Servant/man of the maiden(s)."

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

MAITLAND (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Inhospitable/unproductive soil" (Old French); or, Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "discourteous, rude".

MAJOR (British). Form of Mauger.

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

MALCO(L)M (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Devotee of Saint Columbia (colm the Irish form of Latin Columba 'dove')" (Scots Gaelic).

MALLETT (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Diminuitive of "Mall". Mall is probably derived from Molly, which in turn is derived from Mary.

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

MALONE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Descendant of the devotee of St. John" (Irish).

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

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

MALTBY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Malti's farm".

MAN(N) (British, German). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Servant, vassal, bondsman."

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

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

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

MARCH (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Boundary."

MARCHAM (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Homestead where wild celery grows"; name of place in England.

MARK (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Commonly from the Biblical Mark (derived from Mars, the god of war); or, Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "boundary".

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

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

MARKER (German). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Mark=St. Mark, name of a pope" (Germanic).

MARKHAM (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Homestead on the boundary," place in England.

MARMADUKE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Servant of Madoc" (Irish).

MARR (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Marsh, pool" (Old Norse); or, member of ancient tribes Marsi of Italy or Marsigni of Bohemia.

MARROW (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Mate, chum, sweetheart" (Middle English).

MARSTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Place by marsh".

MARTIN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Diminuitive of "Mars"; through Saint Martin.

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

MASSEY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Diminuitive of "Matthew"; or, Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. after locations in France (massif=hill, range).

MASTERS (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Son at the house of the master".

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

MATTHEW (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Gift of God" (Hebrew); through Mark the Apostle.

MATTHIAS (British). Form of Matthew.

MATTIOLI (Italian). Italian form of Matthew.

MAULE (British, French). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Mall"; or, Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "from Maule, France."

MAYNARD (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Strength hardy" (Germanic).

MAYNOR (British). Form of Maynard.

McALEAR (British). Form of McAlery.

McALERY (British). Form of McChlery.

McAULEY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Olaf (relic of the gods)".

McAWLEY (British). Form of McAuley.

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

McBRIDE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of the devotee of St. Bridget" (Irish).

McCabe (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Cap/ Hood" (Irish).

McCAFFERTY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Steed Rider" (Irish).

McCALL (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Cathal (=battle mighty)" or "son of Cathmhaol (=battle chief)" (Irish).

McCALLUM (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of the devotee of Saint Columba" (Scots Gaelic).

McCHESNEY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Oak grove".

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

McClellan (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of the devotee of St. Imchad" (Gaelic).

McCLUNG (British). ). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Ship" (Scots Gaelic).

McCORMICK (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Chariot Lad" (Irish and Scots Gaelic).

McCOTTER (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Wood estuary".

McCULLOCH (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father."Son of Boar" (Scots Gaelic).

McDONALD (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Donald (world mighty)" (Gaelic).

McDOWELL (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of the swarthy foreigner" (Irish).

McDUFF (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Dark Man" (Irish).

McEWEN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Ewan (='Well-born')" (Scots Gaelic).

McGARRIGLE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Super-Valour" (Irish).

McGEE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Aodh" (pronounced Hugh?).

McGOVERN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. From Maf-Shamhradhain (Gaelic), "son of the man born in summertime".

McGUFFEY (British). Form of McDuff.

McGUIRE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Dun-Coloured" (Irish).

McILROY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of the red-haired lad" (Scots Gaelic and Irish).

McINTI(Y)RE (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Son of the carpenter" (Gaelic).

McINTYRE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of the carpenter/wright" (Irish and Scots Gaelic).

McKAY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Aodh" (Irish and Scots Gaelic).

McKEE (British). Form of McKay.

McKENNA (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Cionaedh" (Scots Gaelic).

McKIE (British). Form of McKay.

McKILLOP (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Philip, fond of horses".

McKINNEY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. From Mac-Cionaodha (Gaelic), "son of the fire-sprung one".

McKINNON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Fair-born".

McKINNON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Fairborne, stream in the ferns" (Gaelic).

McLAUGHLIN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Lauglin, lake/fjord land" (Irish).

McMASTER (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of the master" - either a schoolmaster or a courtesy title (Scots Gaelic).

McREYNOLDS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Power, power".

MEAGHER (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Originally O Meagher -- "descendant of Hospitable" (Irish).

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

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

MEEHAN (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-Emeachain".

MEEK (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Meek, humble, gentle".

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

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

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

MELVIN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. From Maol-mhin (Gaelic), "suave leader"; From Mael-wine "protective swordsman".

MERCER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Merchant, especially a dealer in luxury fabrics" (Old French).

MERRI(O)T (British). ). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Boundary gate" or "famous Geat" (Geats are the Swedish tribe which Beowulf belonged to).

MERRY (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Cheerful, amusing, pleasant."

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

MIDDLETON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Middle place/farm," many places in England.

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

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

MILLAR (British). Scottish form of Miller.

MILLARD (British). Form of Millward.

MILLER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Miller," (Latin), also found as Anglicized version of German or other forms.

MILLICENT (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Work strong" (Germanic).

MILLS (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Miller".

MILLWARD (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Mill-keeper" - an older word than Miller.

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

MINER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Miner" (Old French), or "military sapper."

MINOR (British). Form of Miner.

MINTER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Moneyer, coiner."

MITCHEL(L) (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Common form of Michael; also, Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "big."

MIZE, MICE or MEISE (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "One who sings like a bird, bird handler or from the tableland or flatlands".

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

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

MOIST (British). Form of Moyse.

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

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

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

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

MONDAY (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. From being born on Monday, or Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "holder of Mondayland" - land which required the tenant to work for the lord each Monday.

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

MONTGOMERY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Hill of (an Anglo-Saxon called) Man Powerful" (Old English + Germanic).

MOONEY (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Descendant of Dumb" (Irish).

MOORE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "The Moor, darkie" (Old French); or, Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "moor, fen"; in Ireland, may be an Anglicized form of O More.

MOORE (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "The Moor or darkie".

MOOS (German). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Mossy area" (Germanic).

MORA (Spanish). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Dweller at the moor/heath or black mulberry tree".

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

MORDECAI (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Devotee of Marduk (the Babylonian supreme god)" (Babylonian).

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

MORGAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Sea bright" (Celtic).

MORGESON (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Sea + bright".

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

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

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

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

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

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

MORRIS (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Dark, swarthy" (Latin).

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

MORROW (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Sea commander."

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

MORTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Moor/fen farm," name of many places in England.

MOSELEY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Marsh/mouse clearing," places in England.

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

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

MOTT (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Someone living by a fortified stronghold".

MOTT (French). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Diminuitive of Montanus (=of the mountain).

MOUNTAIN (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Mountain" (Old French).

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

MOYSE (French). Form of Moses.

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

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

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

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

MULLINAX. Possibly a form of Mullinar.

MULLINS (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. ). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. From Molinus (late Latin), "flourmill owner; or from O'Maolain (Gaelic), "young, bald one".

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

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

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

MULVENNA (Irish). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Devotee of the river Main" (Irish Gaelic). Originally "O Maoil Mheana."

MULVIHILL (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Descendant of the devotee of St.Michael" (Irish).

MUMBY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Mundi's byr (=farm)" (Old Norse).

MUNRO(E) (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Mouth of the River Roe."

MURDOCH (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Mariner (literally 'sea warrior/belonging to the sea')" (Scots Gaelic).

MURPH(E)Y (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Descendant of Sea Warrior" (Irish).

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

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

MURRAY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. The County of Moray (=seaboard settlement), Scotland.

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

MURTON (British). Form of Morton, places in England.

MUSTO (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Hundred meeting place".

MYER (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Marsh" (Old Norse); or, "physician" (Old French).

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N

NASH (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "At the ash tree."

NATHAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Gift" (Hebrew).

NEAL(E) (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Champion" (Irish).

NEARY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Descendant of the noble one" (Irish).

NEEDHAM (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Poverty homestead, misery farm"; name of places in England.

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

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

NEILSON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Neal (=champion)" (Old Norse).

NELSON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Nell" (form of Neal), or form of Nilsson.

NESS (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Headland, projecting ridge" (Old English, Old Norse), name of places in England.

NEUMANN (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "New man, settler, newcomer".

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

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

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

NEWBY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "New town" (Old English + Old Norse).

NEWELL (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Someone living at a new hall" or ). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "someone working in one".

NEWELL (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "New hall/manor house" or "new well."

NEWTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "New place/homestead/farm/village"; name of many places in England.

NICODEMUS (Greek). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Victory of the people".

NIEMEIER (German). Form of Neumayer.

NIGHTINGALE (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Nightingale (literally night-singer)," for a sweet voice.

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

NILSEN (Norwegian). Scandinavian form of Neilson.

NILSSON (Scandinavian). Scandinavian form of Neilson.

NIPPS (German). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Dweller near water" (German).

NIXON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Nicolas (=victory people)".

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

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

NOLAN (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-Uallachain".

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

NOONE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Derived from Nuadha, personal name of many ancient Gaelic gods" (Irish).

NORMAN (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "From Normandy, France."

NORRIS (British). ). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Northerner" (Old French) or ). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "nurse" (Old French).

NORTH (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Newcomer from the north, dweller to the north of the village."

NORTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Northern or north-facing place/farm/village," name of places in England.

NORWICH (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Northern town," city in England.

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

NOTTIS (German). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Notte=nut" (Germanic).

NOWELL (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Hurray!" (Old French); or, "news" (from French nouvelles).

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

NUGENT (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "New settlement" (Gaelic).

NUNN (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Nun" - either recording a scandalous birth, or a nickname for a prissy man.

NUTTER (British). ). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. Derived from "nauthyrd (=cattle farmer)" (Old Norse).

NYE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "At the island," place in England.

NYLAND (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "At the island," place in England.

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O

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

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

O'HARE (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-Ir".

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

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

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

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

OAKLEY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Oak wood clearing".

ODGER (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Wealth spear" (Old French, Germanic).

OLDHAM (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Long or formerly cultivated river flat".

OLIVER (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Elf army" (Germanic), usually after Charlemagne's peer.

OLSEN (Scandinavian). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. From Oleifr (Old Norse), "son of Olaf".

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

ORR (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Of the border/shore/hill/ridge"; or, Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "the pale person."

ORTT (German). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Place of land or point of a sword/spear" (Germanic).

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

OSBORNE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Pagan god man/warrior."

OSGATHARP (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Pagan god's farm".

OSGOOD (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Pagan god god," or from Old Norse Asgautr.

OSLER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Bird-catcher, poulterer" (Old French).

OSTER (German). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Easter" (German), a place name.

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

OUTLAW (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Outlaw, criminal."

OWENS (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-Eoghain".

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P

PACKMAN (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. Later form of Pakeman.

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

PAGET (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Little page" (Old French).

PALK. Possibly related to the name Palka.

PALKA (Czech). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Crippled."

PALLETT (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Maker of straw mattresses" or someone who slept on one.

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

PALMER (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Pilgrim" (Old French) - one who had brought back a palm branch from the Holy Land.

PAPE (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. Old French version of Pope.

PARADISE (British, French). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Dweller by the park or garden" (Old French).

PARIS (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Paris (=the tribe Parisii)" (Old French, Gaulish).

PARKER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Park-keeper, park-ranger" (Old French).

PARMENTER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Tailor".

PARMLEY (British). Form of Parmenter.

PARR (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Diminuitive of "Piers (=Peter)."

PARSONAGE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Of the parsonage."

PARSONS (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Of the parson," the S probably implies 'servant of' rather than 'son of' (Old French).

PARTRIDGE (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Partridge" nickname; or, Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. occupational name of one who catches them.

PASCALL (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Connected with Easter" (Latin); Saint Paschal.

PATTEN (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Pattern/clog maker".

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

PATTON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Double diminuitive of "Patrick"; the "on" suffix is Old French.

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

PAUL (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Small" (Latin); through Paul the apostle.

PAYNE (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Villager or country dweller".

PEACOCK (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Peacock," possibly for arrogance.

PEARMAN (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Pear grower/seller."

PEARMINE (British). Form of Pearman.

PEEL (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Stockade, castle" (Old French).

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

PENNEBAKER (Dutch) "Tilemaker" (Germanic).

PENNINGTON (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Farm paying a penny in rent".

PEPPER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Pepperer, a dealer in pepper and spice."

PEPPIN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Tremble" (Germanic); through Frankish kings.

PERRITT (British). "Old English form of Peter (=stone or rock)".

PERRY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Pear tree."

PETER (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Stone, rock" (Greek).

PETERS (British). "Son of Peter (=stone or rock)".

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

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

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

PHELPS (British). Form of Philip.

PHILIP (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Fond of horses" (Greek); Philip the apostle.

PHILLIPS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Phillip" (Greek).

PIC(K)ARD (French). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Of Picardy, France."

PICKETT (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. From Picquet (Old French), "young spearman".

PICKTHORNE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Peak, point, hilltop + thorne".

PIERCE (British). Form of Piers.

PIKE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Peak, point, hilltop"; or, Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "pike, pick-axe," for a pikeman; or, Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "pike (fish)," for a fishmonger (Old French).

PILCHER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Maker of pilches" (a pilch is similar to a pelt).

PILGRIM (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Pilgrim," probably to either the Holy Land or Rome.

PIMBLETT (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Double diminuitive of Pim (=euphemia).

PIPE (British). Unknown - same Germanic stem as Peppin; possibly a form of Piper.

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

PLANT (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Enclosure, plantation" (Old French); or Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "gardener"; or Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "young offspring."

PLATT (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Plot, patch".

PLOWMAN (British). ). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Ploughman."

POISSON (French). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Fisherman" (Old French).

POLDERVAART (Dutch). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Canal through the polder," (Dutch) canal name in Netherlands.

POLLEY (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Small".

POOLE (British). ). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Pool, tidal stream."

POPE (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. For an strict man, or one who worked in the Pope's service.

PORTER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Gate-keeper, door-keeper" (Old French) or "carrier, porter" (Old French).

POWERS (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. ). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. From Pou-caer (Old French), "home on a small beautiful site" or Poore, "poorman".

POWERS (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits."Poor" (Old French); or, Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "from Poix, France" (Old French); or Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor."herald" (because heralds were empowered to perform certain acts).

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

PRENDERGAST (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. Possibly a corruption "castle village" (Old Welsh).

PRENTICE (British). Originally Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor., later Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits., "Apprentice."

PRICE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Rhys" or "fixer of prices" (Welsh).

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

PRINCE (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. (Latin) "First, chief" or for playing the part in a pageant.

PRITCHARD (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Richard (=powerful, brave)" (German).

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

PROUT (British). Form of Proud.

PURCELL (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. or Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Young pig."

PURDY (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "By god!" (literally 'for god'), from a favorite expression.

PUTZ (German). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Dweller near the well" (Germanic).

PYEFINCH (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Stealer of pies."

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Q

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

QUEEN (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Chiene, bitch" (Norman).

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

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

QUILLIAM (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of William" (Manx Gaelic).

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

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R

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

RACKLER (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Mound, gulley + wood clearing".

RADLIFF (British). Form of Radcliff.

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

RAE (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. Scottish form of Roe.

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

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

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

RALEIGH (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Red clearing"; name of place in England.

RALF(E) (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Advice wolf" (Germanic).

RAMSEY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Wild-garlic island," places in England.

RAND (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. Diminuitive of "Randolph"; or, Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "border, untilled land on a river-bank"; name of places in England.

RANDOLPH (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Shield wolf" (Germanic).

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

RASBURY (British). Form of Raspberry.

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

RASH (German). Form of Rasch.

RASPBERRY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Red land with brushwood" (no connection with the fruit), place in England.

RATCLIFF (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Red cliff".

RAY (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "King," nickname based on appearance, being 'king' of a festivity, or service in the royal household (Old French); or, "female deer."

RAYMENT (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Might/counsel protector".

RAYNARD (French). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "fox"; or (Germanic), "powerful or courageous".

REA (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Someone who lived along the river(s) Rea".

READING (British). ). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Clearing (ridding of trees)", or "folk of Red."

RECKELHOFF (German). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Reck=hero" (Germanic).

REDGRAVE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Reedy ditch"; name of place in England.

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

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

REEVE (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Chief magistrate, bailiff."

REGAN (British). ). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. For O Regan - "descendant of little king" (Irish).

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

REHME (German). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Strap cutter" (Germanic).

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

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

REVERE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "At the slope"; or, "reaver, pirate"; or from French surname de Revoire (=view).

REXROAD (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "King's road" or "road with rushes" (Middle English).

REYES (Spanish). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "One who plays the part of a king in a pageant" or "someone who works in the king's house" (Spanish).

REYNOLD (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Power power" (Germanic).

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

R(H)INEHAR(D)T (German). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Mighty and powerful one" or "counsel hard" (Germanic).

RHODE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Clearings".

RHYS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Ardour" (Old Welsh).

RICE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Ardour" (Welsh).

RICE (British). Form of Rhys.

RICHARD (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Powerful brave" (Germanic).

RICHMOND (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Splendid hill" (Old French); name of places in England.

RIDGELY (British). ). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Ridged clearing."

RIEMENSCHNEIDER (German). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Strap cutter" (Germanic).

RIGBY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Ridge farm" (Old Norse).

RIORDAN (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Descendant of Royal Bard" (Irish).

RIPPER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Basket-maker, basket-seller" (Old Norse).

RITTER (German). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Knight" (German).

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

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

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

ROBERTS (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. (German) "Fame, bright".

ROBISON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of Robert (=fame bright)".

ROCHESTER (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Roof of Roman site," place in England.

RODDIN (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Barrel or copper maker".

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

ROE (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Roe (deer)," for speed, shyness, hunting.

ROEBUCK (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Roe buck," for resemblance to the animal.

ROEDER (German). Form of Rother.

ROGER (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Fame spear" (Germanic).

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

ROLFE (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Fame wolf" (Germanic).

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

ROLLINGS (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. "Renown + wolf" (Norman).

ROMANS (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Of the Manor Rothaneic (Scotland)."

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

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

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

ROSAS (Spanish). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Rose cultivator or someone who lives near roses" (Spanish).

ROSE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. From either "cape" (Scots Gaelic), "wood" (Irish and Scots Gaelic) or "moor" (Cornish and Welsh). Or Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. from Germanic feminine name meaning "fame kind."

ROTHER (German). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Famous army" (Germanic).

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

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

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

ROWBOTHAM (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Rough valley".

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

ROWLEY (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Rough wood/clearing," places in England.

ROWSON (British). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. "Son of someone who lived by a hedgerow or a row a houses built beside each other".

RUBY (French). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. From Rubinus (late Latin), "ruby (from a jeweller's sign)".

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

RUIZ (Spanish). Patronymic Names - Names based on the first name of the ancestor s father. From Hrodo (Germanic), "son of the famous one".

RUMPF (German). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Maker/seller/user of the sieves used in gristmills" (Germanic).

RUNDQUIST (Swedish). "Round twig of the family tree" - meaning??.

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

RUSHING (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Rush bed or rushes".

RUSLING (British). Description Names - Nicknames describing the ancestor's face, figure, temper, morals, or habits. (Norman) "Norman noblemen serving as bodyguards/generals/advisors for William the Conqueror".

RUSSELL (British). "Red (hair/face)" (Old French).

RUTLEDGE (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Red ledge."

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

RYAN (British). Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "Possible name of a pre-Christian sea or river diety".

RYDER (British). Occupation Names - Names reflecting the occupation or status of the ancestor. "Rider, knight, cavalryman"; or, Locality Names - Names recording localities or places where ancestors originated. "man at the ride (=clearing)."

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