Froude

The surname Froude is derived from the Middle English word "frowde," meaning "bustling" or "cheerful." It is of Old Norse origin and was brought to England by Scandinavian settlers during the Viking invasions of the 8th and 9th centuries.

Origins

The Froude family can trace its roots back to Devon in southwestern England, where they held a family seat since ancient times. The earliest known record of the surname dates back to the 13th century, where a family of Froudys are mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086.

Notable Individuals

One of the most famous bearers of the Froude name was James Anthony Froude (1818–1894), a renowned English historian, novelist, and biographer. His works include "The History of England from the Fall of Wolsey to the Defeat of the Spanish Armada" and "The English in Ireland in the Eighteenth Century."

Legacy

The Froude surname has spread beyond England to other parts of the English-speaking world, particularly in former British colonies. Today, individuals bearing the name Froude can be found in various professions and walks of life. The surname continues to be passed down through generations, preserving the heritage of the ancient Froude family.

There are approximately 535 people named Froude in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around eight in a million people in Britain are named Froude.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alan
  • Andrew
  • Anthony
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Luke
  • Matthew
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Tom
  • William

Female

  • Elizabeth
  • Heather
  • Hilary
  • Jennifer
  • Karen
  • Kathleen
  • Lydia
  • Margaret
  • Melanie
  • Nicola
  • Shirley
  • 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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