DEVEREUX
Devereux
The surname Devereux is of Norman origin, derived from the Old French name "de Vireux", indicating a person from the town of Vireux in Ardennes, France. The name was introduced into England after the Norman Conquest of 1066.
Origin and History
The Devereux family established themselves in England during the medieval period, particularly in Herefordshire and Wales. Roger de Vereux, an early ancestor, settled in England with William the Conqueror and was granted lands in the Welsh Marches. The Devereux family became prominent landowners and played significant roles in the political and military history of England.
Notable Individuals
- Walter Devereux, 1st Earl of Essex (1541-1576): A prominent courtier and soldier during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. He was a key figure in the English military campaigns in Ireland.
- Robert Devereux, 2nd Earl of Essex (1565-1601): A favourite of Queen Elizabeth I, he was a leading figure in court politics and military affairs. He later fell out of favour and was executed for treason.
- Penelope Devereux, Lady Rich (1563-1607): Sister of the 2nd Earl of Essex, she was known for her beauty and intellect. She was the inspiration for many poets and writers of the Elizabethan era.
Legacy
The Devereux surname continues to be borne by descendants of the historical family, as well as individuals unrelated to the noble lineage. It remains a symbol of prestige and heritage in British society.
References
- Reaney, P. H., & Wilson, R. M. (2008). A dictionary of English surnames. Oxford University Press.
- Cokayne, G. E., & Gibbs, V. (2000). The complete Peerage of England, Scotland, Ireland, Great Britain and the United Kingdom extant, extinct, or dormant. Sutton.
- Richardson, D. (2011). Royal Ancestry: A Study in Colonial and Medieval Families. CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform.
There are approximately 3,279 people named Devereux in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,767th most common surname in Britain. Around 50 in a million people in Britain are named Devereux.
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
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
- Robert
- Stephen
- William
Female
- Ann
- Catherine
- Helen
- Jacqueline
- Janet
- Julie
- Lucy
- Margaret
- Mary
- Michelle
- Nicola
- Sarah
Similar and related surnames
- Davere
- Deaver
- Deavereux
- Deavers
- Deever
- Deiver
- Devare
- Devares
- Devargas
- Deveer
- Dever
- Deveraux
- Devereau
- Devereaux
- Devereax
- Deveren
- Devereu
- Devereuse
- Deverew
- Deverex
- Devergne
- Deveria
- Devericks
- Deveries
- Deverix
- Devero
- Deveroux
- Devers
- Deveruex
- Deverux
- Devery
- Devier
- Devore
- Devoreuse
- Devoreux
- Devreux
- Devyer
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.