Forrest

Forrest, sometimes spelled as Forest, is a surname of English origin. The name derives from the Old French word "forest," meaning woodland or wooded area. As such, Forrest likely originally referred to someone who lived near or in a forest or wooded area.

The Forrest surname is known to have a long history in the British Isles, particularly in England and Scotland. The name is believed to have been used to refer to families or individuals who had homes near forests or woods. Over time, many individuals with the surname Forrest spread to other parts of the British Isles and beyond due to factors such as migrations, marital unions, or economic opportunities.

The Forrest surname can be found in various historical records, including census documents, parish registers, and other genealogical sources. As with many surnames, variations in spelling have occurred over the centuries, including Forest, Forrist, and Forist.

Famous individuals bearing the surname Forrest include the Scottish-born actor and director, Andrew Forrest, known for his work in the film industry. The surname has also been associated with notable individuals in various fields, reflecting the diverse history of families carrying the name.

Overall, the Forrest surname represents a connection to the natural landscape and can be traced back to ancestral ties to woodlands. Today, individuals with the surname Forrest can be found across the United Kingdom and in other parts of the world, contributing to the rich tapestry of British surnames and history.

There are approximately 14,833 people named Forrest in the UK. That makes it the 597th most common surname in Britain. Around 228 in a million people in Britain are named Forrest.

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

  • Alan
  • Andrew
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Robert
  • William

Female

  • Anne
  • Catherine
  • Christine
  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Jean
  • Karen
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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