FIFE
Fife
Fife is a Scottish surname of occupational origin, deriving from the Old English word "fíf", meaning "fief" or "estate". The surname Fife is primarily found in Scotland, particularly in the historic county of Fife, after which the surname and region are likely named.
The first documented instance of the surname Fife dates back to the 13th century in Scotland, suggesting a long-standing presence in the region. Like many surnames of this nature, Fife likely originated as a way to distinguish individuals who lived or worked on or near a particular fief or estate.
Throughout history, individuals bearing the surname Fife have been found in various occupations and social classes, including farmers, tradespeople, and even nobility. The surname has spread beyond Scotland to other parts of the United Kingdom and the wider world due to migration and emigration over the centuries.
Today, individuals with the surname Fife can be found across the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, and other English-speaking countries. The name continues to be passed down through generations, contributing to its enduring presence and significance in the realm of British surnames.
There are approximately 703 people named Fife in the UK. That makes it roughly the 9,670th most common surname in Britain. Around 11 in a million people in Britain are named Fife.
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
- Alastair
- Andrew
- David
- Edward
- James
- John
- Matthew
- Michael
- Peter
- Robert
- William
Female
- Catherine
- Eileen
- Elizabeth
- Helen
- Jean
- Joanna
- Justine
- Karen
- Katherine
- Lorraine
- Margaret
- Nichola
- Rebecca
- Sarah