GILLIAM
Gilliam
Overview
Gilliam is a notable British surname with origins linked to medieval England. The surname is of locational origin, derived from the place name "Gillingham", meaning "the homestead of the family or followers of a man called Gylla". The name is primarily found in southern England, particularly in counties like Dorset and Kent.
Historical Origins
The earliest recorded instance of the Gilliam surname dates back to the 13th century in the Hundred Rolls of Norfolk. Over time, the surname has evolved into various spellings including Gillam, Gillingham, and Gillman. The occupational significance of the name suggests a connection to the brewing industry.
Notable Figures
The surname Gilliam has been carried by several notable individuals in British history, including filmmakers like Terry Gilliam, renowned for his work with the Monty Python comedy troupe and his directorial contributions to distinctive films such as "Brazil" and "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas".
Distribution and Variation
The distribution of the Gilliam surname has expanded beyond England, with notable populations in the United States. Variants of the surname, such as Gillam and Gillingham, also exist due to historical spelling variations and regional dialects.
Conclusion
The Gilliam surname, with its roots in medieval England, continues to hold historical and cultural significance. From its locational origins to the notable individuals who have borne the name, Gilliam remains a distinctive part of British heritage.
There are approximately 501 people named Gilliam in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around eight in a million people in Britain are named Gilliam.
Surname type: From given name or forename
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Wales
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Welsh
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Andy
- Bill
- Christopher
- David
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Nicholas
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
- Robert
Female
- Amy
- Dorothy
- Elvira
- Emma
- Kate
- Laura
- Margaret
- Marilyn
- Michelle
- Nicola
- Patricia
- Sally
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
- Guilliam
- Gilliatt
- Gillam
- Gillham
- Tilson
- Willcock
- William
- Willcocks
- Wille
- Wilcockson
- Gilam
- Gilian
- Gelmi
- Giliomee
- Gillams
- Gillem
- Gilli
- Gilliams
- Gillian
- Gillians
- Gillias
- Gilliat
- Gilligam
- Gilligham
- Gilliham
- Gillim
- Gilliman
- Gillin
- Gillinham
- Gillium
- Gillom
- Gillum
- Gillyan
- Gillyean
- Gilma
- Jalim
- Jallim
- Jallum
- Jaulim
- Jellema
- Jillian
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.