EARNSHAW
Earnshaw
Overview
Earnshaw is a surname of English origin that is primarily found in the West Yorkshire region. The name is derived from old English words, with ‘Earn’ meaning ‘eagle’ and ‘Shaw’ referring to a dense wood or thicket. This suggests a possible interpretation that early bearers of this surname resided near or had a connection to an eagle-inhabited wooded area.
Historical Significance
The earliest recorded instance of the Earnshaw surname dates back to the 14th century in Yorkshire records. The name has historical ties to prominent figures such as Heathcliff Earnshaw, a fictional character of Emily Brontë's novel “Wuthering Heights,” contributing to the surname's popularity in literary works.
Distribution and Variation
Earnshaw remains more prevalent in the northern counties of England, particularly in Yorkshire and Lancashire. Variants of the surname include Arnshaw, Ernshaw, and Arnall, reflecting changes in spelling over time due to phonetic evolution and regional accents.
Notable Individuals
- Heathcliff Earnshaw: Although a fictional character in Emily Brontë's “Wuthering Heights,” Heathcliff has become synonymous with the Earnshaw surname, portraying complex and enduring characteristics.
- Graham Earnshaw: A British publisher, writer, and photographer known for his work in China and his memoirs of living in the country during the tumultuous years of the Cultural Revolution.
Modern Influence
In contemporary British society, the surname Earnshaw continues to maintain its historical and literary appeal. Many individuals bearing this surname can trace their ancestry back to Yorkshire, still carrying with it a sense of regional pride and heritage.
There are approximately 4,631 people named Earnshaw in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,032nd most common surname in Britain. Around 71 in a million people in Britain are named Earnshaw.
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
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Robert
- Stephen
Female
- Catherine
- Christine
- Elizabeth
- Helen
- Julie
- Karen
- Linda
- Margaret
- Mary
- Sarah
- Susan