DOWNES

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Downes

Downes is an English surname, derived from the Old English word "dun" meaning hill and "es" meaning ridge or spur. The name likely originated to describe someone who lived near or on a hill or ridge.

History

The Downes surname can be traced back to ancient Anglo-Saxon origins. The name was first recorded in the early medieval period in various forms such as Down, Downe, and Dunne. The Downes family is believed to have been prominent in the counties of Essex and Sussex in England.

Notable Bearers

Hugh Downes (1715 - 1787): English architect known for his work in designing country manor houses.
Pamela Downes (1923 - 2010): British author and historian, renowned for her research on medieval English folklore.
Tom Downes (b. 1985): British actor who has appeared in several popular television series.

Distribution

Today, individuals with the surname Downes can be found not just in England, but also in countries with a historical connection to Britain such as Australia, Canada, and the United States. The name has spread through migration and settlement over the centuries.

The surname Downes carries with it a rich history and a sense of English heritage, making it a distinguished part of Britain's cultural tapestry.

There are approximately 10,826 people named Downes in the UK. That makes it the 854th most common surname in Britain. Around 166 in a million people in Britain are named Downes.

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
Christopher
David
James
John
Michael
Paul
Peter
Richard
Robert
Stephen

Female

Christine
Elizabeth
Emma
Helen
Jacqueline
Julie
Lisa
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.