Badger

Origin and Meaning

Badger is an English surname of occupational origin, derived from the Old English word "baegert," which means a "badge" or "mark." The name likely originally referred to a person who made or wore badges or marks, or who worked as a badger, engaging in the practice of badging, which was a form of trading with counterfeit coins in the Middle Ages.

Historical Distribution and Notable Bearers

The surname Badger is most commonly found in southern England, particularly in counties such as Wiltshire, Devon, and Somerset. The Badger family name dates back to at least the 14th century in England. The name has seen various spellings over the centuries, including Badger, Badgew, Badgher, and Badge.

Notable bearers of the Badger surname include British snooker player Clive Badger, actor and comedian Norman Badger, and renowned naturalist and broadcaster Chris Badger. These individuals have contributed significantly to their respective fields and have brought recognition to the Badger surname.

Modern Significance

In modern times, the Badger surname continues to be held by numerous individuals across the UK and beyond. Many families with the surname take pride in their heritage and may participate in genealogy research to trace their lineage. The name Badger holds historical significance and adds to the diverse tapestry of British surnames.

Coat of Arms

The Badger family does have a coat of arms associated with the surname. The shield includes elements such as a blue background with a gold cross, a silver crescent, and a black lion's head. These symbols allude to various aspects of the family's history and heraldic traditions.

Conclusion

The Badger surname is a distinctive English name with a rich history dating back centuries. From its origins as an occupational surname to its modern significance, the Badger name continues to be passed down through generations, connecting individuals to their ancestral roots and heritage.

There are approximately 3,215 people named Badger in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,822nd most common surname in Britain. Around 49 in a million people in Britain are named Badger.

Surname type: Occupational name

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

  • Andrew
  • David
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Philip
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Caroline
  • Christine
  • Claire
  • Emma
  • Janet
  • Joan
  • Karen
  • Lisa
  • 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.

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