Berriman

Berriman is an English surname of Old French origin, derived from the name "Bertram" meaning "bright raven". The surname is predominantly found in the South West of England, particularly in Cornwall and Devon.

Origins and History:

The Berriman surname can be traced back to medieval times, with records showing its occurrence in Cornwall as far back as the 14th century. The name was likely brought to England during the Norman Conquest of 1066, where it underwent various phonetic changes over the centuries before settling on its current form.

Distribution and Popularity:

The Berriman surname remains relatively uncommon in England, with most individuals bearing the name residing in the South West region. While the name may not be as prevalent as some more common surnames, it nonetheless carries a sense of regional identity and history for those who bear it.

Notable Individuals:

  • John Berriman (1691–1768): An English churchman and theologian, known for his published sermons and theological works.
  • William Julius Berriman (b. 1954): A British physician and academic specialising in radiology, known for his contributions to medical imaging and education.

Variants and Derivatives:

Variants of the Berriman surname include "Berrymon", "Berrymans", and "Berryman". These variations reflect the evolution of the surname over time and its adaptation to different dialects and regions.

In conclusion, the Berriman surname carries a rich history and unique regional identity within England, reflecting the diverse linguistic and cultural influences that have shaped British surnames over the centuries.

There are approximately 1,383 people named Berriman in the UK. That makes it roughly the 5,723rd most common surname in Britain. Around 21 in a million people in Britain are named Berriman.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alan
  • Andrew
  • Anthony
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Neil
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Robert
  • Stephen
  • Steven
  • Thomas

Female

  • Alison
  • Barbara
  • Emma
  • Jean
  • Julie
  • Linda
  • Lynn
  • Margaret
  • Nicola
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan

BritishSurnames.uk is a Good Stuff website.