Emmanuel

Emmanuel is a distinguished British surname of biblical origin, derived from the Hebrew name Emmanuel meaning "God is with us." The surname is considered to be a patronymic name, signifying descent from a father or ancestor named Emmanuel.

Origin and Meaning

The surname Emmanuel has roots in the Old Testament of the Bible, notably in the Book of Isaiah where the prophecy of the birth of the Messiah is foretold, stating "Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel" (Isaiah 7:14). This prophecy is significant in the Christian faith and has led to the name Emmanuel being associated with divinity and spiritual significance.

Distribution and Variants

The surname Emmanuel is relatively rare and is most commonly found in regions with historic ties to Christianity. Variants of the surname may include Immanuel or Emanuel, reflecting different transliterations of the original Hebrew name.

Notable Individuals

While the surname Emmanuel may not be as prevalent as some other British surnames, there have been notable individuals bearing this name in various fields, including academia, literature, and the arts. These individuals have contributed to the rich tapestry of British culture and society.

Legacy

Embodying a sense of devotion and faith, the surname Emmanuel holds a symbolic and spiritual significance for those who bear it. It serves as a reminder of the enduring influence of biblical narratives and the cultural heritage that continues to shape British family names to this day.

In conclusion, the surname Emmanuel encapsulates a legacy of faith, tradition, and heritage among British families, reflecting a connection to the divine and the enduring significance of biblical influences in the modern world.

There are approximately 1,824 people named Emmanuel in the UK. That makes it roughly the 4,539th most common surname in Britain. Around 28 in a million people in Britain are named Emmanuel.

Surname type: From given name or forename

Region of origin: Africa

Country of origin: Nigeria

Language of origin: Yoruba

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Anthony
  • David
  • John
  • Joseph
  • Jude
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Claudia
  • Deborah
  • Elizabeth
  • Esther
  • Janet
  • Linda
  • Margaret
  • Maria
  • Mary
  • Patricia
  • Sarah

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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