BESANT

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Besant

The surname Besant has English and French origins, derived from the Old French word "besant", meaning a Byzantine gold coin. The name may have originally been an occupational surname for a moneyer or a banker who dealt with this type of currency. Alternatively, it may have been a nickname for a wealthy or generous individual, reflecting the value associated with the besant coin.

The Besant surname is most commonly found in the southern regions of England, particularly in areas with a historical connection to commerce and trade. Notable bearers of the Besant surname include Annie Besant (1847–1933), a prominent British socialist, theosophist, and women's rights activist.

Variants of the Besant surname include Besante, Besanty, and Beasant. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the name have evolved due to regional dialects and influences.

The Besant surname carries a rich history and is a testament to the diverse origins of British surnames.

There are approximately 479 people named Besant in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around seven in a million people in Britain are named Besant.

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

Allan
Andrew
Christopher
David
Ian
Jason
John
Mark
Michael
Nicholas
Nick
Peter
Steven
William

Female

Amy
Christine
Claire
Colette
Deborah
Denise
Jennifer
Joanne
Lorraine
Marie
Rebekah
Sarah
Tracey
Tracy

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.