Borrow

Origin: The surname Borrow is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word "bur" meaning "cottage" or "shelter." It likely originated as a topographic name for someone who lived near or in a small dwelling.

History: The surname Borrow has historical roots in various regions of England, with early records indicating the presence of Borrow families in counties such as Norfolk, Suffolk, and Lancashire. Over time, the surname has spread to other parts of the United Kingdom and beyond through migration and settlement.

Notable Individuals: One of the most renowned individuals with the surname Borrow is George Henry Borrow (1803–1881), an English author and linguist known for his travel writings and translations. Borrow's works, including Lavengro and The Bible in Spain, have earned him a lasting place in English literature.

Variants: Variants of the surname Borrow include Borrer, Borrows, and Borrowman, each reflecting different regional pronunciations and spellings over time.

Coat of Arms: The Borrow family is associated with a distinctive coat of arms, featuring symbols such as cottages or huts, which further reinforce its connection to the original meaning of the name.

Modern Distribution: Today, the surname Borrow can be found in various countries, with concentrations in the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, and Canada among other regions. It continues to be passed down through generations, preserving a connection to its historic origins.

There are approximately 361 people named Borrow in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around six in a million people in Britain are named Borrow.

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
  • David
  • Gary
  • Ian
  • James
  • John
  • Jonathan
  • Michael
  • Nicholas
  • Oliver
  • Peter
  • Raymond
  • Timothy

Female

  • Angela
  • Christine
  • Florence
  • Hazel
  • Jacqueline
  • Janet
  • Kate
  • Nicola
  • Sarah
  • Sharon
  • Sheila
  • Stephanie
  • Susan

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