Delf

Origin and Meaning

Delf is a surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English word "delfan," meaning "to dig" or "to delve." The name likely originated as an occupational surname for someone who worked as a digger or delver of the earth.

Distribution and History

The surname Delf is primarily found in the East Anglian region of England, with notable concentrations in counties such as Norfolk, Suffolk, and Cambridgeshire. The name has ancient roots in this area and has been present in English records for centuries.

Notable Bearers

Famous individuals with the surname Delf include:

  1. Richard Delf - English cricketer who played for Cambridge University and Sussex in the late 19th century.

  2. Sophie Delf - Renowned English pottery artist known for her unique ceramic creations inspired by nature and folklore.

  3. Michael Delf - Esteemed British archaeologist known for his groundbreaking research on Roman settlements in the UK.

Variants and Derivatives

Variants of the surname Delf include Delve, Delves, and Delph, all of which share a common etymological origin. Over time, variations in spelling and pronunciation have led to the development of these related surnames.

There are approximately 354 people named Delf in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around five in a million people in Britain are named Delf.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Christopher
  • James
  • John
  • Julian
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Peter
  • Philip
  • Richard
  • Scott
  • Stephen
  • William

Female

  • Carol
  • Denise
  • Evelyn
  • Jean
  • Julie
  • Karen
  • Sally
  • Sarah
  • Sophie
  • Valerie
  • Victoria

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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