GOUGH
Gough
Overview
Gough is a surname of English and Welsh origin, derived from the medieval personal name "Goff" or "Gough." The surname is believed to have originated from the Welsh word "coch," meaning red, and may have been used to describe someone with red hair or a ruddy complexion. The Gough surname is primarily found in the United Kingdom, particularly in England and Wales.
History
The Gough surname has ancient roots, dating back to the early Middle Ages in England and Wales. The name has been recorded in various forms throughout history, including "Goff," "Gofe," and "Gogh." The Gough family has been associated with nobility and landed gentry in both countries, with notable individuals holding titles and estates.
Over the centuries, the Gough surname has spread across the United Kingdom and beyond, with descendants of Gough families immigrating to other English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Today, the surname remains relatively common, with a significant number of individuals bearing the name worldwide.
Notable Individuals
The Gough surname is associated with several notable individuals in various fields, including politics, academia, and the arts. Some prominent figures with the surname Gough include:
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Richard Gough (1735-1809) - A Scottish antiquarian and collector known for his work in preserving historical manuscripts and artifacts.
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Sir Hubert Gough (1870-1963) - A British general who served during World War I and played a key role in several major battles, including the Battle of the Somme.
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Antony Gough (b. 1956) - A New Zealand property developer and entrepreneur known for his contributions to urban development projects in Christchurch.
Trivia
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The Gough surname is pronounced as "Goff" in some regions of the United Kingdom, while others may pronounce it as "Gow" or "Goff."
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The coat of arms associated with the Gough surname typically features heraldic symbols such as lions, crosses, and other traditional elements.
In conclusion, the Gough surname holds a rich history of nobility, ancestry, and notable individuals, making it an integral part of British and Welsh heritage.
There are approximately 18,612 people named Gough in the UK. That makes it the 465th most common surname in Britain. Around 286 in a million people in Britain are named Gough.
Surname type: From given name or forename
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Ireland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
- Robert
Female
- Christine
- Elizabeth
- Helen
- Jacqueline
- Joanne
- Julie
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan