Dene

Dene is an Anglo-Saxon locational surname that derives from the Old English word "denu," meaning valley. The surname is of toponymic origin, indicating that the original bearer lived near or in a valley. The name may also originate from various places in England bearing the name "Dene" or "Dean," such as Dean in Oxfordshire or Dean in Essex.

The distribution of the surname Dene in England is primarily concentrated in the southern regions, with notable occurrences in counties like Kent, Essex, and Hampshire. Over time, the surname Dene may have undergone spelling variations, such as Deane or Dean, due to factors like phonetic changes and dialectal influences.

Individuals with the surname Dene have been recorded in various historical documents and genealogical records, reflecting the surname's presence in British history. The name Dene has roots in the early medieval period and carries with it a sense of connection to the English landscape.

Like many English surnames, the surname Dene has likely evolved and diversified as families migrated and settled in different regions. Today, the surname Dene continues to be borne by individuals around the world, with some branches of the family having established themselves in countries beyond the British Isles through migration and historical ties.

In modern times, the surname Dene serves as a reminder of England's rich linguistic and geographical heritage, linking individuals to their ancestral origins and the landscapes of the past.

There are approximately 80 people named Dene in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Dene.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Clement
  • Graham
  • John
  • Richard
  • Robert

Female

  • Paula
  • Penelope
  • Sara

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