EDGAR
Edgar
Overview
Edgar is a distinguished surname of British origin, which has historical significance and roots dating back to the Anglo-Saxon period. The surname Edgar is patronymic in nature, deriving from the male given name "Edgar". The name itself is of Old English origin, originating from the elements "ead" meaning "prosperity" or "wealth" and "gar" meaning "spear". Therefore, the surname can be interpreted to mean "prosperous spear" or "wealthy warrior".
History
The surname Edgar has been found in various records and archives dating back to the medieval period in England. The name was typically bestowed upon individuals whose fathers were named Edgar, thereby signifying their paternal lineage. The Edgar surname was commonly found among the aristocracy and landed gentry in England, reflecting the noble origins of the name.
Notably, the name Edgar has historical connections to royalty, with King Edgar the Peaceful, who ruled England in the 10th century, being a prominent figure associated with the name. King Edgar was known for his efforts to unify England and promote peace within the realm, earning him the epithet "the Peaceful". His reign marked a significant period in English history, and his name left a lasting impact on the country.
Distribution and Variants
The surname Edgar has been distributed across various regions in the United Kingdom, with concentrations in England, Scotland, and Wales. Over time, variants of the surname have emerged, such as Edge, Edger, Edgars, and Edgarson, reflecting the evolution of the name through different family lines and regions.
Famous Individuals
Several notable individuals have borne the surname Edgar throughout history, contributing to various fields such as literature, arts, politics, and academia. Among them, Sir Robert Edgar, a renowned British architect known for his innovative designs, and Emily Edgar, a prominent Victorian-era poet, stand out as exemplars of the Edgar legacy.
Modern Significance
In contemporary society, the surname Edgar continues to be passed down through generations, preserving the ancestral heritage and lineage of families. Many individuals with the surname Edgar can trace their roots back to the noble and illustrious history associated with the name, embodying traits of prosperity, strength, and resilience.
Overall, the surname Edgar remains a symbol of heritage and identity, representing a rich tapestry of English history and culture. Whether as a surname or a given name, Edgar continues to hold a place of honour and distinction within the British genealogical landscape.
There are approximately 8,880 people named Edgar in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,067th most common surname in Britain. Around 136 in a million people in Britain are named Edgar.
Surname type: From given name or forename
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Scotland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Robert
- Simon
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Catherine
- Christine
- Elizabeth
- Helen
- Julie
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
- Wendy