Gates

The surname Gates is of Anglo-Saxon origin, deriving from the Middle English word "gate," meaning an opening in a wall or fence. It is a toponymic surname, often indicating a residence near a gate or a gatekeeper. The name Gates is most commonly found in the southern and eastern parts of England.

The Gates family name has been recorded throughout English history, with notable individuals bearing the surname including the renowned American business magnate and philanthropist, Bill Gates.

Variations of the surname Gates include Gait, Gate, Gaites, and Gatiss. The crest associated with the Gates family coat of arms features a shield with a silver peacock standing on a grassy mount.

The surname Gates continues to be prominent in modern times, with diverse branches of the family found across the United Kingdom and beyond.

There are approximately 8,366 people named Gates in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,129th most common surname in Britain. Around 128 in a million people in Britain are named Gates.

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
  • John
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Alison
  • Ann
  • Elizabeth
  • Jacqueline
  • Julie
  • Karen
  • Linda
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Rebecca
  • Sarah
  • 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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