BESS
Bess
Bess is a distinctive British surname which holds historical significance within the United Kingdom. The surname Bess is rooted in English, Scottish, and Welsh ancestry and is said to have originated from the medieval female given name "Bess," which is a shortened form of the name "Elizabeth".
Origins:
The name Bess derives from the Old English name "Elizabeth" which means "God is abundance" or "God is my oath". In medieval times, Bess was a common nickname for Elizabeth, and over time became a surname in its own right.
Distribution:
The surname Bess is prevalent in various regions across the United Kingdom, including England, Scotland, and Wales. Today, individuals bearing the surname Bess can be found scattered throughout the British Isles.
Notable Bearers:
-
Bess of Hardwick (1527-1608) - An influential figure in Elizabethan England and one of the most powerful women of her time. Bess was known for her formidable character and her grand estates.
-
Lionel Bess (1890-2005) - A renowned British author and historian, whose works focused on the cultural heritage of England.
Modern Significance:
The surname Bess continues to be passed down through generations today, serving as a reminder of the rich history and heritage of the British Isles. In contemporary times, individuals with the surname Bess can be found engaged in various professions and pursuits, adding to the diverse tapestry of British society.
In conclusion, the surname Bess is a notable and esteemed lineage within British genealogy, embodying the legacy of its origins while embracing the modern world.
There are approximately 128 people named Bess in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Bess.
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
- Alex
- Anthony
- David
- Gordon
- Graham
- Gregory
- Ian
- Jason
- Joshua
- Michael
- Paul
- Russell
Female
- Ada
- Amanda
- Beverley
- Clare
- Edna
- Elizabeth
- Henrietta
- Jacqueline
- Jane
- Margaret
- Penelope
- Stephanie
- Susan
- Vivienne
Similar and related surnames
- Bass
- Basse
- Base
- Bace
- Basso
- Bassi
- Bassa
- Baise
- Baize
- Bassie
- Baess
- Baass
- Baiss
- Bes
- Besa
- Bessa
- Besse
- Bessi
- Besso
- Baze
- Bease
- Beesa
- Beese
- Beiss
- Besas
- Bese
- Besh
- Besi
- Besk
- Beso
- Bessey
- Bessie
- Bessis
- Bessy
- Besu
- Besy
- Besze
- Beze
- Bassoo
- Bassou
- Bassu
- Bassue
- Bassy
- Bayce
- Bayse
- Bazes
- Beace
- Beas
- Beash
- Beasy
- Beece
- Bees
- Beice
- Beish
- Besch
- Besck
- Besey
- Bessho
- Bissa
- Best
- Bose
- Boss
- Boys
- Buss
- Buzza
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.