BELFORD
Belford
Origin and Meaning Belford is a British surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English words "bella" meaning 'bell' and "ford" meaning 'ford'. The name likely indicates someone who lived near a ford marked by a bell.
History The surname Belford can be traced back to medieval England, with records showing its presence in various regions across the country. The name has variations such as Bellford and Belfour, reflecting the evolving phonetic spellings over time. Belford families were known to have settled in counties such as Northumberland and Buckinghamshire.
Notable Individuals The surname Belford has been carried by various individuals who have left their mark in different fields. While there are no high-profile figures associated with the name, Belfords have made contributions as professionals, artisans, and community members over the centuries.
Variants and Derivatives Variants of the Belford surname include Bellford, Belfour, and Belforth. These variations have arisen through regional dialects, transcriptions, and other linguistic influences.
Modern Distribution In the modern era, individuals bearing the surname Belford can be found not only in the United Kingdom but also in other English-speaking countries, particularly in former British colonies. The name continues to be passed down through generations, preserving a connection to its historical roots.
Coat of Arms The Belford coat of arms typically features heraldic symbols denoting courage, loyalty, or family heritage. These designs vary depending on the specific family branch and its history.
Conclusion The surname Belford, with its origins in Old English, remains a distinctive part of British heritage. While not as prominent as some other surnames, Belford has its own unique history and significance for those who bear it. Its continued presence across generations serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of families who have carried this name.
There are approximately 568 people named Belford in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around nine in a million people in Britain are named Belford.
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
- Andrew
- Anthony
- David
- Douglas
- John
- Jonathan
- Michael
- Paul
- Robert
- Stephen
- William
Female
- Alice
- Annette
- Barbara
- Christine
- Georgina
- Irene
- Jean
- Jennifer
- Judith
- Margaret
- Morag
- Nicky
- Nicola
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.