Burleigh

Origin: The surname Burleigh is of Old English origin, derived from a locational name referring to various places named Burley or Burleigh in England. These place names are believed to mean "clearing with a fort" or "meadow with a fortress".

History: The first recorded instance of the surname Burleigh dates back to the early 13th century in Lincolnshire, England. Over the centuries, the name spread throughout the British Isles and beyond, carried by individuals and families as they migrated and settled in different regions.

Notable Individuals:

  • William Cecil, 1st Baron Burghley (1520-1598): Adviser and statesman to Queen Elizabeth I of England, played a key role in the Elizabethan era.
  • Benjamin Burleigh (1817-1876): Renowned British journalist and editor, known for his work in The Daily Telegraph.
  • Daphne Burleigh (1905-1983): British artist and sculptor, known for her contributions to the modern art movement.

Variants: The surname Burleigh has various spelling variants, including Burley, Burlie, Burly, and Birley.

Modern Day: In contemporary times, the surname Burleigh is found not only in the United Kingdom but also among the British diaspora around the world. It remains a testament to the rich history and diverse origins of British surnames.

There are approximately 782 people named Burleigh in the UK. That makes it roughly the 8,936th most common surname in Britain. Around 12 in a million people in Britain are named Burleigh.

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

  • Christopher
  • David
  • Ian
  • James
  • John
  • Kenneth
  • Michael
  • Peter
  • Robert
  • Steven
  • William

Female

  • Ann
  • Charlotte
  • Cheryl
  • Debra
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Georgina
  • Jennifer
  • Katherine
  • Margaret
  • Patricia
  • Rachel
  • Sarah
  • Sharon
  • 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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