GOODMAN
Goodman
Goodman is a surname of English origin that derives from the Middle English term "goodman," which was used to refer to a man who was a householder or landowner. The surname has its roots in the Old English word "gōd," meaning good, and "manna," meaning man.
The Goodman surname is considered to be of occupational origin, given to those individuals who held a position of authority or were deemed to be respectable members of their community. Over time, the name has evolved to denote a man of good repute or character.
The distribution of the Goodman surname is spread throughout the United Kingdom, with notable concentrations in regions such as England, Scotland, and Wales. The name has also been carried across the globe by individuals of British descent, particularly to countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Throughout history, individuals bearing the Goodman surname have made significant contributions to various fields, including politics, academia, business, and the arts. Famous bearers of the Goodman surname include British politicians, scholars, athletes, and artists, each leaving a unique mark on their respective fields.
In contemporary times, the Goodman surname continues to be prevalent within the British Isles and beyond, representing a proud legacy of individuals who embody the qualities of respectability, integrity, and leadership.
References:
- Reaney, P. H., & Wilson, R. M. (1997). A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford University Press.
- Hanks, P., Coates, R., & McClure, P. (2016). The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland. Oxford University Press.
There are approximately 15,227 people named Goodman in the UK. That makes it the 579th most common surname in Britain. Around 234 in a million people in Britain are named Goodman.
Surname type: Occupational name
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
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Robert
Female
- Anne
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Jane
- Karen
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan