Bower

The surname Bower is of Old English origin, deriving from the word "bur," which means a small dwelling or a cottage. It is a toponymic surname, indicating that the original bearer of the name hailed from a place named Bower. Such locations were often found in different parts of England, Scotland, and Ireland.

The Bower surname is widely distributed throughout the British Isles, with notable concentrations in regions such as Yorkshire, Hampshire, and the Scottish Lowlands. The name may also have Norman roots, as it was introduced to England after the Norman Conquest of 1066.

Variant spellings of the Bower surname include Bowyer, Bauer, and Bowar. Over time, the name has evolved through different branches and families, leading to various coats of arms and crests associated with the Bower name.

Throughout history, individuals with the surname Bower have been found in a variety of professions and pursuits, including agriculture, trade, and the military. The name has also been linked to notable individuals in the arts, sciences, and politics.

Today, the Bower surname continues to be borne by many families across the United Kingdom and the wider English-speaking world. As a traditional British surname with a rich history, the name Bower serves as a reminder of the diverse origins and heritage of the British people.

There are approximately 8,255 people named Bower in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,147th most common surname in Britain. Around 127 in a million people in Britain are named Bower.

Surname type: Occupational name

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
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Stephen

Female

  • Christine
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Helen
  • Jane
  • Janet
  • Jennifer
  • Joan
  • Julie
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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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