Begg

Begg is a surname of Scottish origin that is believed to have derived from the Gaelic word "beag," meaning "small" or "little." The name is a variant of the surname "Beg" and is predominantly found in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Origin and Meaning

The Begg surname is thought to be of toponymic origin, derived from the name of a location where the original bearer may have lived or held land. Alternatively, it may have been bestowed as a nickname on a person of small stature or humble origins.

Distribution and Historical Significance

The Begg surname has historical significance in Scotland, with records indicating its presence in various regions, including the Highlands and Lowlands. It is associated with families that have played roles in the country's history and culture.

Notable Individuals

1. Alexander Begg (1839–1897): A Scottish-Canadian journalist and author known for his writings on the history of British Columbia.

2. Fay Begg: (b. 1948): A British actress renowned for her performances on stage and screen.

Variants and Derivatives

Variants and derivatives of the surname Begg include Beg, Beggs, and Begbie, among others.

References

  • Reaney, P. H., & Wilson, R. M. (2011). A Dictionary of English Surnames.
  • Hanks, P., Coates, R., & McClure, P. (2016). The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland.

The Begg surname continues to be borne by individuals across the United Kingdom and around the world, contributing to its enduring legacy and significance in British genealogy and history.

There are approximately 2,887 people named Begg in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,083rd most common surname in Britain. Around 44 in a million people in Britain are named Begg.

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Scotland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alan
  • Alexander
  • Andrew
  • David
  • Iain
  • Ian
  • James
  • John
  • Robert
  • William

Female

  • Alison
  • Elizabeth
  • Fiona
  • Gillian
  • Helen
  • Jean
  • Jennifer
  • Karen
  • Lesley
  • Linda
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • 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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