Drew

Drew is a British surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English personal name "Drēogan," meaning "to carry out," "to endure," or "to live." The name evolved into a surname during the medieval period when hereditary surnames became more common in England.

Origins:

The surname Drew has its roots in various regions across England, with concentrations in counties such as Cornwall, Devon, and Kent. It is believed to have been patronymic, originally denoting "son of Drew." Variations of the surname, such as Drewe and Drewes, have also been recorded throughout history.

Notable Individuals:

  • George Drew (1910–1973): A Conservative politician who served as the Premier of Ontario, Canada, from 1943 to 1948.

  • Penelope Drew: An acclaimed British actress known for her roles in theatre and television productions.

Modern Distribution:

Today, the surname Drew is prevalent not only in the United Kingdom but also in other English-speaking countries such as the United States, Australia, and Canada. This dispersion can be attributed to historical emigration patterns and global migration trends.

Coat of Arms:

The coat of arms associated with the surname Drew typically features heraldic symbols such as lions, crosses, and chevrons, reflecting the family's ancestral origins and status. These symbols are a source of pride and heritage for individuals with the surname Drew.

In conclusion, the surname Drew has a rich history rooted in English culture and has produced notable figures across various fields. Its prevalence across the globe attests to the enduring legacy of this distinguished and notable British surname.

There are approximately 14,412 people named Drew in the UK. That makes it the 617th most common surname in Britain. Around 221 in a million people in Britain are named Drew.

Surname type: From given name or forename

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

  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Barbara
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Helen
  • Joanne
  • Linda
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Michelle
  • Nicola
  • 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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