BURROWS

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Burrows

Origin and Meaning: Burrows is an English surname of locational origin, derived from the Middle English word "burrow" meaning a fortified town or a cottage.

History: The surname Burrows is believed to have originated in the southern region of England, particularly in the counties of Sussex and Hampshire. It was likely used to describe someone who lived near a fortified town or a hill, or someone who worked in the agricultural field.

Distribution: As a surname, Burrows is most commonly found in the United Kingdom, especially in England. It has spread to other English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Famous Individuals: Notable individuals bearing the surname Burrows include:

  1. Craig Burrows (b. 1976) - American professional baseball player.
  2. Rachel Burrows (b. 1988) - British actress known for her work in theater and television.
  3. William S. Burrows (1932–2008) - American journalist and author known for his works on military history and intelligence.

Modern Significance: Today, the surname Burrows continues to be passed down through generations, serving as a link to the ancestral roots of families around the world. Many individuals with this surname have diversified into various professions and fields, contributing to society in different ways.

Variants: Variants of the surname Burrows include Burroughs, Burrowes, and Burrow.

References:

  • Reaney, P.H., Wilson, R.M. (2008). A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford University Press.
  • Hanks, P., Coates, R., McClure, P. (2016). The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland. Oxford University Press.

There are approximately 26,409 people named Burrows in the UK. That makes it the 308th most common surname in Britain. Around 406 in a million people in Britain are named Burrows.

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
  • Stephen

Female

  • Christine
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Helen
  • Jane
  • Julie
  • Karen
  • Lisa
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Patricia
  • 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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