ANTHONY
Anthony
The surname Anthony is of English origin, deriving from the given name Anthony. The name is ultimately of Latin origin, from the name Antonius, believed to be of Etruscan origin. The name became popular in Britain due to the veneration of Saint Anthony, a 4th-century Egyptian hermit, and monk known for his ascetic lifestyle and miracles.
The surname Anthony is widespread across the United Kingdom, with concentrations in England, Wales, and Scotland. Variants of the surname include Antony and Antonie. The name has been anglicised over the centuries as it was adopted by English speakers.
Throughout history, individuals bearing the surname Anthony have made significant contributions to various fields, including literature, politics, and the arts. Examples include Sir Anthony van Dyck, the influential Flemish Baroque artist who became the leading court painter in England during the reign of Charles I, and Marc Antony, the Roman politician and general known for his affair with Cleopatra.
Today, the surname Anthony is still common in Britain and is borne by individuals from diverse backgrounds. The name continues to evoke traits associated with Saint Anthony, such as piety, perseverance, and strength of character.
There are approximately 9,469 people named Anthony in the UK. That makes it the 987th most common surname in Britain. Around 145 in a million people in Britain are named Anthony.
Surname type: From given name or forename
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
- Alison
- Catherine
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Helen
- Jane
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.