Crawford

Definition: Crawford is a prominent Scottish surname of locational origin, deriving from a few different places in Scotland. The name can be traced back to the Barony of Crawford in Lanarkshire or the village of Crawford in Dumfries and Galloway. It is classified as a habitational surname, indicating that the original bearers were associated with the named place.

History: The surname Crawford has ancient roots in Scotland, with the earliest records dating back to the 12th century. The Crawford family played a significant role in Scottish history, with members holding titles such as the Earls of Crawford and the Lords of Crawford. The name has spread beyond Scotland to various English-speaking countries through migration and settlement.

Variants: Variants of the Crawford surname include Crauford, Crafford, and Craford. Over time, regional dialects and clerical errors have led to different spellings of the name.

Famous Individuals:

  • William Crawford: An 18th-century British army officer known for his service in the French and Indian War.
  • Joan Crawford: A famous American actress from the golden age of Hollywood.
  • Michael Crawford: A renowned British actor and singer, best known for his role in the musical "The Phantom of the Opera".

Crest and Motto: The Crawford family crest typically features symbols like a stag's head, a red heart, or a galley ship. The motto "Tutum te robore reddam" translates to "I will make you safe by strength".

Legacy: The surname Crawford has left a lasting impact on Scottish and British history, with descendants of the Crawford name continuing to contribute to various fields like arts, politics, and academia. The name carries a sense of pride in its Scottish heritage and is recognized as a symbol of nobility and strength.

There are approximately 29,837 people named Crawford in the UK. That makes it the 269th most common surname in Britain. Around 458 in a million people in Britain are named Crawford.

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
  • David
  • Ian
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Robert
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Alison
  • Anne
  • Catherine
  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Jane
  • 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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