ELDER
Elder
The surname Elder is of English origin and is derived from the Middle English word "eldre" or "elder," meaning someone of advanced age or seniority within a community or family. In a historical context, the surname may have been used to denote the head of a household or village, or someone who held a position of authority.
The Elder surname is thought to have originated as a nickname for an older individual, distinguishing them from younger members of the community. Over time, the name became hereditary and passed down through generations within families.
Variants of the Elder surname may include Elders, Elderman, and Eldridge, reflecting regional dialectical differences or changes over time.
The distribution of the Elder surname in the United Kingdom is widespread, with concentrations in various regions across England, Scotland, and Wales. The name may have different regional associations and historical origins, reflecting the diverse nature of British surnames.
Notable individuals bearing the Elder surname include academics, artists, politicians, and other professionals who have made significant contributions to their respective fields. Genealogical research into the Elder surname may uncover fascinating stories of family heritage and connections to British history.
In contemporary times, the Elder surname continues to be passed down through generations, connecting modern individuals to their ancestral past and the traditions of British naming practices.
There are approximately 5,557 people named Elder in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,706th most common surname in Britain. Around 85 in a million people in Britain are named Elder.
Surname type: Nickname
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
- Alexander
- Andrew
- David
- Ian
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Robert
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Caroline
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Fiona
- Helen
- Julie
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.