Ames

Origin and Meaning: Ames is a surname of Old French or Anglo-Saxon origin. It is derived from the Old French personal name "Amis," meaning "friend," or from the Old English personal name "Aethelmaer," composed of the elements "aethel" (noble) and "maer" (famous).

Historical Significance: The surname Ames has a long history in Britain, with records dating back to the medieval period. It is believed to have been introduced to England by the Normans after the Norman Conquest of 1066.

Distribution and Frequency: The surname Ames is relatively rare in Britain, with concentrations in various regions across the country. It can be found in historical records and genealogical databases, allowing individuals to trace their lineage and family history.

Variants: Variants of the surname Ames include Amis, Amesbury, and Aimes.

Notable Individuals:

  • Roger Ames: A renowned British philosopher known for his work in Confucian ethics.
  • Mary Ames: An influential suffragette who campaigned for women's voting rights in the early 20th century.
  • Dr. Jonathan Ames: An esteemed British physician and researcher in the field of infectious diseases.

In Popular Culture: The surname Ames has also been featured in various literary works, films, and television series, contributing to its recognizability and cultural significance.

Conclusion: Overall, the surname Ames holds a place in British history and society, with its origins rooted in medieval times and its presence enduring through the centuries. Its diverse variants and notable individuals add depth to its story, making it a name of interest for those exploring their British heritage.

There are approximately 3,293 people named Ames in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,756th most common surname in Britain. Around 51 in a million people in Britain are named Ames.

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

  • Anthony
  • Christopher
  • David
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Christine
  • Elaine
  • Elizabeth
  • Jennifer
  • Karen
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Rebecca
  • Sarah
  • Susan
  • Victoria

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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