DURHAM
Durham
Durham is a prominent surname with roots in England, specifically the historic county of Durham in the northeast. The name "Durham" derives from the Old English words "dun," meaning hill, and "holmr," meaning island or river meadow. This suggests that the original bearers of the surname likely lived near or on a hill by a river or meadow.
The first recorded instance of the surname can be traced back to the 13th century in County Durham, England. Over the centuries, the surname Durham has spread beyond its original confines in the northeast of England, and can now be found throughout the United Kingdom and in other parts of the world where British settlers have established communities.
Individuals with the surname Durham have made significant contributions to various fields, including academia, politics, the arts, and sports. The name has been carried by notable figures such as William Durham, a renowned historian, and Elizabeth Durham, a celebrated sculptor.
Today, individuals with the surname Durham continue to uphold the legacy of their ancestors and contribute to the diverse tapestry of British society. The name reflects a rich heritage and a strong connection to the historic county of Durham, from which it takes its origins.
There are approximately 5,129 people named Durham in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,844th most common surname in Britain. Around 79 in a million people in Britain are named Durham.
Surname type: Location or geographical feature
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
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Stephen
Female
- Elizabeth
- Jean
- Jennifer
- Julie
- Margaret
- Mary
- Michelle
- Nicola
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.