Benfold

Origin and Meaning

Benfold is an English surname of Old English origin. It is a toponymic surname, indicating that it originally denoted an individual who resided by a fold, a pen or enclosure for livestock. The name "Benfold" is believed to have derived from the Old English words "bean" meaning bent grass, and "fold" meaning a piece of enclosed land.

Historical Significance

The Benfold surname has been found predominantly in the southern regions of England, particularly in the counties of Sussex and Kent. The first documented recording of the name dates back to the early 13th century, making it an ancient and established surname in British history.

Notable Individuals

While the surname Benfold is not widely recognised in contemporary times, historical records suggest that individuals bearing this surname may have been involved in various occupations such as shepherding and farming. As is the case with many English surnames, the significance of the Benfold name lies in its connection to the ancestral lands and occupations of the bearers.

Modern Distribution

Today, the Benfold surname is relatively uncommon and may be found in various regions of the United Kingdom and beyond. Like many traditional surnames, the prevalence of the Benfold name has decreased over time, likely due to factors such as migration, intermarriage, and changing societal norms.

In conclusion, the British surname Benfold carries a rich history rooted in the landscapes and occupations of medieval England. While its prominence may have dwindled in contemporary times, the legacy of the Benfold name endures through the ancestral connections of its bearers.

There are approximately 151 people named Benfold in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Benfold.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Anthony
  • Ben
  • Colin
  • Darren
  • Garry
  • Lee
  • Paul
  • Scott
  • Shaun
  • Stephen
  • Stuart
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Catherine
  • Colleen
  • Dorothy
  • Eileen
  • Elaine
  • Lesley
  • Margaret
  • Rachel
  • Samantha
  • Sheila

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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