ADDISON
Addison
Overview
Addison is a prominent British surname with historical roots dating back to medieval times. This surname is of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the given name "Adam", meaning 'son of Adam'. The name Adam itself has biblical origins, as the first man created by God in the Book of Genesis. The surname Addison is classified as a patronymic name, indicating it was used to identify individuals based on their father's name.
Etymology
The surname Addison consists of two components: "Add" and "son", with "Add" being a variation of Adam. Over the course of history, different branches of the family may have adapted the name to reflect regional dialects or variations in spelling. The addition of the suffix "-son" is indicative of the surname's patronymic nature.
Distribution
Addison is a surname with widespread distribution across the United Kingdom, with notable concentrations in regions such as Yorkshire, Lancashire, and London. Over the centuries, individuals bearing the surname have dispersed to various parts of the world, including the United States, Canada, and Australia.
Famous Individuals
The Addison surname has been associated with numerous notable figures in British history and literature. Joseph Addison (1672-1719), a renowned essayist and poet, who co-founded The Spectator magazine, is one of the most famous bearers of the surname. His contributions to the literary landscape of the time continue to be celebrated.
Coat of Arms
The Addison family's coat of arms typically features traditional heraldic symbols. While specific designs may vary according to branch and lineage, common elements such as shields, crests, and mottoes are often part of the heraldic representation of the Addison surname.
Modern Significance
In contemporary British society, the surname Addison remains a distinct and recognisable element of individual and family identity. Many individuals with the Addison surname maintain a connection to their ancestral heritage and history, while others have embraced the name in diverse fields and professions, contributing to the rich tapestry of British society.
Thus, the Addison surname exemplifies the enduring legacy of British history and culture, embodying a tradition of heritage and identity passed down through generations.
There are approximately 8,939 people named Addison in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,063rd most common surname in Britain. Around 137 in a million people in Britain are named Addison.
Surname type: From name of parent
Origin: English
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: England
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: English
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Robert
- Stephen
- William
Female
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Helen
- Jacqueline
- Janet
- Julie
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan