GILLEARD
Gilleard
Gilleard is a surname of British origin, deriving from the Old French personal name "Guillier," meaning 'will, desire.' It has been in existence since medieval times and is believed to have Norman roots. The name may have been introduced to Britain after the Norman Conquest of 1066.
The Gilleard surname is relatively scarce in the United Kingdom, with most occurrences being concentrated in specific regions. It is more commonly found in northern England, particularly in Yorkshire and Lancashire. The name has also spread to regions such as Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Notable individuals bearing the surname Gilleard include those who have made significant contributions in their respective fields, from academia to the arts. The name has also become associated with various families and lineages across generations.
Like many surnames, the spelling and pronunciation of Gilleard may have undergone variations over time, as is common with Old French-derived names. Today, individuals with the surname Gilleard can be found across the United Kingdom and in other parts of the world due to migration and globalisation.
Overall, the surname Gilleard holds historical and cultural significance within the British Isles, serving as a marker of heritage and lineage for those who bear it.
There are approximately 173 people named Gilleard in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around three in a million people in Britain are named Gilleard.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alan
- Christopher
- Dirk
- Ian
- James
- John
- Mark
- Peter
- Robert
- Simon
- Stephen
- Steven
Female
- Carol
- Claire
- Emma
- Gemma
- Holly
- Janet
- Joan
- Joanne
- Margaret
- Nora