BUFF
Buff
Origin: The surname Buff is of English and Scottish origin, derived from the Old French word "buffe," meaning a blow or thump. It is believed to have been an occupational surname given to someone who worked as a pugilist or a boxer.
History: The surname Buff dates back to medieval times and is recorded in various forms such as Buffe, Buffin, and Buffum. The name was first found in Scotland, where the Buff family held a seat in the county of Berwickshire. Over time, bearers of the surname spread across the British Isles and beyond.
Coat of Arms: The Buff family crest typically features a shield with symbols representing strength, courage, and often elements associated with pugilism, such as boxing gloves or a clenched fist.
Notable Individuals:
- Edward Buff (1797-1873): An English bare-knuckle boxer known for his skill and endurance in the ring.
- Sarah Buff (1832-1905): A Scottish suffragist and activist for women's rights during the Victorian era.
- James Buffin (1901-1967): A British poet and playwright whose works reflected the social and political issues of his time.
Current Distribution: Today, the surname Buff can be found dispersed throughout the United Kingdom and in various English-speaking countries. It remains a distinctive and historically significant surname, representing a lineage with roots in sporting and social history.
References:
- P.H. Reaney, "A Dictionary of English Surnames," Oxford University Press, 1997.
- G. Black, "The Surnames of Scotland: Their Origin, Meaning, and History," New York Public Library, 1989.
There are approximately 182 people named Buff in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around three in a million people in Britain are named Buff.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Anthony
- Clinton
- Colin
- David
- Dennis
- James
- Jamie
- John
- Mark
- Peter
- Robert
Female
- Gail
- Gemma
- Gillian
- Katie
- Leigh
- Patricia
- Sharon
- Susan
- Tracey
- Wendy