Diaper

Diaper is a British surname with its origins dating back to the medieval period. The name is believed to have been derived from the Old French word "diapre," meaning a type of intricate patterned cloth.

Origins

The Diaper surname was likely used as an occupational name for a weaver or textile worker involved in creating the distinctive diaper fabric. Diaper fabric was characterised by its intricate pattern of small and repeating shapes, often used in clothing, furnishings, and decorative arts.

Distribution

The Diaper surname is most commonly found in the southern counties of England, with historical records showing concentrations in areas such as Hampshire, Sussex, and Kent. Over time, individuals bearing the surname migrated to other parts of the British Isles and even beyond.

Notable Individuals

  • Sir Peter Diaper: A renowned textile merchant and patron of the arts during the Elizabethan era.
  • Eleanor Diaper: Victorian-era poet known for her works on social reform and women's rights.
  • Dr. Thomas Diaper: A pioneering surgeon in the field of dermatology in the early 20th century.

Modern Legacy

While the Diaper surname may have been more prevalent in historical records, it continues to exist in contemporary times. Descendants of the Diaper family have spread across the globe, diversified into various professions, and retained a connection to their ancestral heritage.

As with many surnames, the Diaper name carries a rich history that is intertwined with the cultural and social developments of Britain over the centuries.

There are approximately 1,024 people named Diaper in the UK. That makes it roughly the 7,235th most common surname in Britain. Around 16 in a million people in Britain are named Diaper.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Kevin
  • Mark
  • Martin
  • Matthew
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Raymond
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Alison
  • Amy
  • Caroline
  • Elizabeth
  • Jean
  • Kathryn
  • Patricia
  • Rebecca
  • 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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