CHESS
Chess
The surname Chess has its origins as a habitational name derived from places named Chess in Buckinghamshire or the now-lost Chese in Oxfordshire. The place name is believed to be derived from the Old English word "ceos" meaning "gravel" or "shingly ground." The surname Chess is classified as being of Anglo-Saxon origin.
Distribution
The surname Chess is primarily found in the southern region of England, particularly in the historic counties of Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire. Over time, individuals bearing the surname Chess have spread across the United Kingdom and beyond, establishing diverse lineages and connections.
Notable Individuals
- George Chess (1816–1897): A prominent industrialist from Buckinghamshire who played a key role in the development of the local mining industry.
- Eleanor Chess (1902–1975): Renowned author and poet known for her reflective works on rural life in Oxfordshire.
- Richard Chess (b. 1955): Noted musician and composer, recognised for his contributions to classical music in Britain.
Etymology and Variants
Variants of the surname Chess include Chessell, Chesson, and Chesman. The etymology of the surname suggests a connection to the landscape and geography of the ancestral lands for those who bear it.
Heraldic Symbolism
While specific coats of arms associated with the Chess surname may vary, common heraldic symbols such as shields, mottos, and colours could signify attributes or characteristics valued by the name's bearers. Heraldry has been an essential aspect of British culture and identity, often reflecting the history and values of a family lineage.
Legacy
The surname Chess, like many British surnames, carries with it a legacy of familial and geographic significance. Through generations, individuals bearing the name have contributed to various fields, leaving an imprint on the cultural tapestry of the United Kingdom. The ancestral roots of the Chess surname intertwine with the landscape and history of England, embodying a rich and enduring heritage.
There are approximately 69 people named Chess in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Chess.
Region of origin: Europe
Country of origin: Poland
Language of origin: Polish
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Christopher
- Gerry
- Martyn
- Oscar
- Paul
Female
- Anna
- Claire
- Lisa
- Sian
Similar and related surnames
- Chace
- Chaise
- Chaize
- Chas
- Chase
- Chases
- Chasey
- Chasi
- Chassay
- Chasse
- Chassey
- Chease
- Chees
- Cheese
- Cheesey
- Cheeso
- Cheesy
- Cheisa
- Ches
- Chesa
- Chescoe
- Chescu
- Chese
- Chesey
- Chesko
- Cheso
- Chessa
- Chessam
- Chessar
- Chesse
- Chessel
- Chessen
- Chesser
- Chesses
- Chessex
- Chessey
- Chessir
- Chessis
- Chesso
- Chessom
- Chesson
- Chessor
- Chessow
- Chessum
- Chessun
- Chesswas
- Chessy
- Chest
- Chez
- Cheza
- Chiesa
- Chiese
- Chiesi
- Schiess
- Schiessl
- Shass
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.