FOOTE
Foote
Overview: Foote is a surname of English origin, mainly found in the United Kingdom. As with many surnames, it can have various origins and meanings, reflecting the diverse history of its bearers.
Etymology: The surname Foote is believed to have originated from the Old English word "fot," which means "foot." This could have been used as a nickname for someone with a deformity or peculiarity of the foot, or it could have denoted someone who was a fast runner or attended to footmen.
History: The Foote family name is documented as far back as the 12th century in England. A notable historical figure with this surname was Samuel Foote (1720–1777), an English dramatist and actor known for his farces and comedic performances in 18th-century London. The name has spread to various parts of the British Isles and the wider world due to migration and settlement.
Distribution: The surname Foote is most commonly found in areas with strong historical ties to England, such as London, Cornwall, and Devon. However, you can also find bearers of this surname in other parts of the UK and in former British colonies, such as Australia, Canada, and the United States.
Variants: Variations of the surname Foote include Foot and Foott. Over time, spelling variations have emerged due to regional dialects and changes in pronunciation.
Famous Bearers:
- Samuel Foote (1720–1777): English dramatist and actor
- Shelby Foote (1916–2005): American historian and novelist
Genealogy: Genealogical research can reveal the historical origins and connections of individuals with the surname Foote. Resources such as census records, birth and marriage certificates, and parish registers can provide insights into family trees and ancestral lines.
References:
- Reaney, P. H., & Wilson, R. M. (1997). A dictionary of English surnames. Oxford University Press.
- Hanks, P., Hardcastle, K., & Hodges, F. (2006). A dictionary of surnames. Oxford University Press.
There are approximately 2,976 people named Foote in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,011th most common surname in Britain. Around 46 in a million people in Britain are named Foote.
Surname type: Nickname
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
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Robert
- Stephen
- William
Female
- Alison
- Barbara
- Caroline
- Elizabeth
- Helen
- Jacqueline
- Kathleen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan