Fell

The surname Fell is of English origin, derived from the Old Norse personal name "Felagi" which means "companion" or "partner." It is considered to be a topographic name, given to people who lived by a pasture or mountainous region. The name can also have been locational, denoting someone who lived near a "fell," which is a term used in Northern England for high and barren moorland areas.

The first recorded instance of the surname Fell dates back to the early 13th century in England. Over time, the name has spread to different parts of the country and is now found throughout the United Kingdom.

Notable bearers of the surname Fell include John Fell (1625–1686), an English churchman and influential academic, known for his work in establishing the University of Oxford, and William Henry Fell, a renowned British botanist known for his contributions to the field of plant sciences.

In modern times, the surname Fell continues to be prevalent in British society and has spread to various parts of the world due to migration and emigration. It is a name that holds historical significance and a connection to the diverse landscapes of Britain.

There are approximately 6,259 people named Fell in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,515th most common surname in Britain. Around 96 in a million people in Britain are named Fell.

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
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Jonathan
  • Michael
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • William

Female

  • Catherine
  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Joan
  • Lisa
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Patricia
  • Rachel
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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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