FAIRFAX
Fairfax
Fairfax is an ancient English surname with roots dating back to the medieval period. The name is of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English words "fæger," meaning beautiful, and "fisc," meaning fish.
The Fairfax family has played a significant role in British history, particularly in the county of Yorkshire. The most renowned branch of the family is the Fairfax family of Gilling Castle in North Yorkshire. This noble family produced several notable figures throughout the centuries, including Sir Thomas Fairfax, a prominent military commander during the English Civil War, and his son, the third Lord Fairfax, who was an early settler and landowner in the American colonies.
The Fairfax surname has spread beyond Yorkshire to other parts of the United Kingdom and the world, with Fairfax families establishing themselves in places such as London, Australia, and North America.
The Fairfax name continues to be borne by individuals of diverse backgrounds and professions, contributing to various fields such as politics, academia, and business. The Fairfax surname remains a symbol of heritage, resilience, and contribution to British society.
There are approximately 744 people named Fairfax in the UK. That makes it roughly the 9,266th most common surname in Britain. Around 11 in a million people in Britain are named Fairfax.
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
- Alan
- Andrew
- Christopher
- Daniel
- David
- Ian
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Stephen
- Thomas
Female
- Elaine
- Elizabeth
- Helen
- Jacqueline
- Janet
- Joan
- Michelle
- Patricia
- Rachel
- Sarah
- Susan
- Vanessa
- Victoria
- Virginia