Cram

Overview

Cram is a surname of English origin that can be traced back to medieval times. The name is derived from the Old English word "cramm" or "crom," which means "bent" or "crooked." It is an example of a topographic surname, which typically originated from a geographical feature near which the initial bearer of the name resided.

History

The surname Cram has ancient roots in England, with records showing its presence in various counties across the country. It is believed that families bearing the surname Cram were involved in agricultural pursuits, living and working on lands that were curved or crooked in shape. Over time, the name would have been passed down through generations, eventually becoming a hereditary surname.

Distribution

The surname Cram is relatively uncommon in contemporary Britain, with individuals bearing this name being found in various regions of the country. While the exact number of individuals with the surname Cram today is relatively small, their presence can be noted in historical records and genealogical databases.

Notable Individuals

  • John Cram (1798–1887): An English artisan known for his craftsmanship in woodworking and furniture making.

  • Mary Cram (1905–1999): Acclaimed British author of children's literature, renowned for her vivid storytelling and imaginative characters.

  • Richard Cram (1932–2010): Esteemed British historian specialising in medieval architecture and heritage conservation.

Variant Spellings

Throughout history, the spelling of the surname Cram has evolved, leading to variations such as Crome, Cramm, or Cramer. These deviations in spelling can be attributed to factors such as regional dialects, phonetic interpretations, and clerical errors in written records.

Legacy

Though the surname Cram may not be as widespread as some other English surnames, families with this name continue to honour their heritage and maintain a connection to their ancestral roots. The legacy of the Cram surname lives on through the descendants who proudly bear this name and contribute to the diverse tapestry of British surnames.

There are approximately 680 people named Cram in the UK. That makes it roughly the 9,901st most common surname in Britain. Around ten in a million people in Britain are named Cram.

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Scotland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alan
  • Colin
  • David
  • Gregor
  • James
  • John
  • Marc
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Robert
  • Stephen
  • William

Female

  • Ann
  • Catherine
  • Jennifer
  • Karen
  • Laura
  • Margaret
  • Margot
  • Mary
  • Patricia
  • Ruth
  • 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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