ANSELL
Ansell
Origin of the Surname
The surname Ansell is historically associated with England, particularly within the counties of Sussex and Kent. It is a patronymic name, derived from the given name "Ansel", which itself has Old Germanic origins, meaning 'god-like' or 'noble'. The name has evolved over centuries to its current form as Ansell.
Distribution and Popularity
The surname Ansell is relatively widespread across the United Kingdom, with notable concentrations in the southern regions of England. It is believed to have been most common in Sussex and Kent, areas which historically had a high concentration of Ansells. The name has also branched out to other parts of the UK and beyond, reflecting the movement and migration of families over time.
Notable Individuals
1. Joseph Ansell (1800-1877) - A prominent Victorian industrialist known for his contributions to the railway industry, particularly in the development of locomotive technology.
2. Caroline Ansell (b. 1972) - A contemporary Conservative politician who has served as a Member of Parliament for Eastbourne since 2015, known for her advocacy on education and social issues.
3. Arthur Ansell (1924-2010) - A respected botanist and environmentalist who conducted extensive research on native flora in the British Isles, contributing significantly to the field of conservation biology.
Coat of Arms
The Ansell family has a distinctive coat of arms that dates back to medieval times. The shield features symbols such as lions, crosses, and other heraldic devices, which traditionally represent virtues like courage, faith, and honour. The crest may depict a helmet or other decorative motifs that symbolise the family's heritage and values.
Legacy
The surname Ansell has left a lasting legacy in British history, with numerous individuals making notable contributions to various fields over the centuries. Its presence in different regions of the UK underscores the diverse spread and influence of the Ansell family name. Today, descendants of the Ansells continue to honour their heritage and ancestral connections, preserving the rich history associated with this venerable surname.
There are approximately 7,706 people named Ansell in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,220th most common surname in Britain. Around 118 in a million people in Britain are named Ansell.
Surname type: Location or geographical feature
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
- Peter
- Richard
- Robert
Female
- Carolyn
- Elizabeth
- Helen
- Joan
- Julie
- Louise
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.