GIFFARD
Giffard
Giffard is an ancient English surname with Norman origins, derived from the Old French name "Girard". The name is thought to have been introduced to England after the Norman Conquest of 1066. The Giffard surname is of toponymic origin, meaning that it originally referred to a person who came from the village of Giffard-sur-Moine in Anjou, France.
The Giffard family is one of the oldest and most prominent noble families in England. The surname is associated with nobility and landed gentry, with several notable individuals bearing the name over the centuries. The family held prestigious positions, including landowners, knights, and barons.
One of the most notable figures in the Giffard family is Walter Giffard, who was the Archbishop of York from 1266 to 1279. He played a significant role in the political and religious affairs of medieval England and was known for his piety and generosity.
The Giffard surname has seen various spellings over time, including Gifford and Gyffard, reflecting the evolution of English language and spelling conventions.
Today, the Giffard surname continues to be found worldwide, with descendants of the ancient English family dispersed across the globe. The legacy of the Giffard family lives on through its historical contributions and enduring presence in British history.
There are approximately 348 people named Giffard in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around five in a million people in Britain are named Giffard.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alan
- Charles
- David
- John
- Keith
- Lee
- Mark
- Peter
- Robert
- Stephen
- Thomas
Female
- Eleanor
- Emma
- Judith
- Karen
- Mary
- Petra
- Sally
- Samantha
- Sarah
- Violet