Downs

The surname Downs is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word dun, meaning "hill" or "down". This surname is considered to be of topographic origin, describing someone who lived by a hill or a high place. The Downs name is one that has been present in the British Isles for centuries and is found mainly in England, particularly in the southern regions.

Historically, individuals bearing the surname Downs have been associated with various occupations, including agricultural work on downs or hillsides, as well as landowners or inhabitants of areas known as the Downs. The Downs family name has been documented in records dating back to medieval times, indicating its long-standing presence in British history.

Over the years, the Downs surname has evolved in spelling and form due to variations in regional accents and dialects. Different spellings such as Dounes, Downes, or Dunns can be found in historical documents, reflecting the diverse ways in which the surname was recorded in the past.

Today, individuals with the surname Downs can be found across the United Kingdom and in other English-speaking countries. The name may also have spread through emigration to places such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

In conclusion, the surname Downs holds a rich history within the British Isles and continues to be a prevalent name associated with individuals of English heritage.

There are approximately 6,541 people named Downs in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,452nd most common surname in Britain. Around 100 in a million people in Britain are named Downs.

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
  • Stephen

Female

  • Alison
  • Christine
  • Claire
  • Elaine
  • Elizabeth
  • Joanne
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Natalie
  • Nicola
  • 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.

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