Burden

Burden is a surname of English origin, derived from the Old English word "burththen", meaning a load or weight. The name is believed to have originated as an occupational surname for someone who carried heavy loads or worked as a labourer.

Distribution

The surname Burden is most commonly found in southern England, particularly in counties such as Hampshire, Wiltshire, and Dorset. Over time, the name has spread throughout the United Kingdom and can also be found in former British colonies and the United States.

Notable Individuals

  • Chris Burden (1946-2015): An American artist known for his performance artworks that often involved extreme endurance or risk.
  • Alan Burden: A British historian and author known for his research on medieval English history.

Variants

Variants of the surname Burden include Burdon, Bourden, and Bourdon. Different versions of the name may have arisen due to variations in spelling and pronunciation over time.

Heraldic Arms

The Burden family crest typically features symbols of strength and endurance, reflecting the original meaning of the surname. The coat of arms may include elements such as a shield, helm, and motto, which are used to identify and distinguish families in heraldic tradition.

In conclusion, the surname Burden has a long history in England and has been carried by individuals from various backgrounds and professions. Its origins in Old English reflect the importance of physical labour and endurance in the lives of those who bore this name.

There are approximately 6,582 people named Burden in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,441st most common surname in Britain. Around 101 in a million people in Britain are named Burden.

Surname type: Location or geographical feature

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
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Richard

Female

  • Catherine
  • Christine
  • Claire
  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Linda
  • Louise
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Rebecca
  • 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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