Benham

Benham is a British surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English personal name Be(o)mund, which means "bear protector". The name Benham is primarily found in the southern region of England, particularly in Berkshire, Oxfordshire, and Wiltshire.

Origins

The Benham surname can be traced back to medieval times, where it was commonly used as a personal name before evolving into a hereditary surname. The name has ancient roots in England, and families bearing the Benham surname have been recorded in official documents such as parish records, census data, and land deeds dating back several centuries.

Distribution and Variants

The surname Benham remains relatively concentrated in the southern counties of England, but individuals with this surname have also migrated to other parts of the UK and the world. Variants of the surname include Benhamm, Benam, and Bennum.

Notable Individuals

1. William Benham (1831–1910)

  • An English Anglican priest and author known for his works on liturgy and church history.

2. Jordan Benham (b. 1985)

  • A contemporary British artist famous for his abstract paintings and installations.

3. Emily Benham (b. 1990)

  • British mountain biker and multiple national champion in cross-country and marathon disciplines.

Legacy

The Benham surname carries with it a sense of English heritage and tradition. Families with this surname have contributed to various fields, leaving a lasting impact on British society. Today, individuals with the surname Benham continue to uphold their legacy and keep the name alive through generations.

There are approximately 3,255 people named Benham in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,794th most common surname in Britain. Around 50 in a million people in Britain are named Benham.

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
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Richard
  • Robert

Female

  • Amanda
  • Claire
  • Jane
  • Joanne
  • Julie
  • Karen
  • Laura
  • Margaret
  • Michelle
  • Sarah
  • Susan
  • Victoria

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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