FITZGERALD
Also recorded as Fitz Gerald, Fitz-Gerald, Fitz-gerald, Fitzgerald
Fitzgerald
Fitzgerald is a prominent British surname with a rich history and heritage that traces back to medieval times. The surname originates from the Old French name "FitzGerald", meaning "son of Gerald". The name "Gerald" itself is of Germanic origin, derived from the elements "ger", meaning "spear", and "wald", meaning "rule". The prefix "Fitz-" in the name signifies "son of", denoting that the individual bearing this surname is descended from someone named Gerald.
The Fitzgerald family is of Norman descent and played a significant role in British history, particularly in Ireland. The most famous branch of the Fitzgeralds is the House of Fitzgerald, which was one of the most powerful families in Ireland during the Middle Ages. They were known for their military prowess, political influence, and close ties to the English monarchy.
Notable members of the Fitzgerald family include Gerald FitzGerald, 8th Earl of Kildare (known as the "Great Earl"), who was a dominant figure in Irish politics during the 15th and 16th centuries and served as the Lord Deputy of Ireland. Another eminent figure is Edward Fitzgerald, a renowned poet and translator in the 19th century, known for his work on the "Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam".
Throughout history, the Fitzgeralds have been associated with titles such as Earl of Kildare, Earl of Desmond, and Duke of Leinster. Their lineage has intertwined with royal families and nobility, further solidifying their place in British and Irish society.
Today, the surname Fitzgerald remains widespread, not only in the British Isles but also in countries with strong ties to Britain, such as the United States, Australia, and Canada. It continues to carry a sense of prestige and heritage, symbolizing a lineage of noble ancestors and a history of influence and power in the realms of politics, culture, and society.
There are approximately 18,403 people named FitzGerald in the UK. That makes it the 471st most common surname in Britain. Around 283 in a million people in Britain are named FitzGerald.
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Ireland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Anthony
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Patrick
- Paul
- Stephen
- Thomas
Female
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Helen
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.