Gover

Gover is an English surname of occupational origin. Derived from the Old English word "gafol," meaning tax or tribute, it originally denoted someone who collected taxes or dues on behalf of a landowner or the Crown. The surname Gover is of early medieval English origins and is first recorded in the early 13th century.

Distribution and Migration

The name Gover has been recorded throughout England, with concentrations in the south and southwest regions. Over the centuries, some bearers of the surname migrated to other parts of the British Isles and beyond, particularly during the period of British colonial expansion.

Notable Individuals

The Gover surname has been borne by several noteworthy individuals throughout history, including prominent figures in various fields such as politics, academia, and the arts.

  • John Gover (1765-1841): English politician who served as a Member of Parliament for Dorset.
  • Alice Gover (1889-1973): Renowned British author and poet known for her works on nature and conservation.
  • Professor David Gover (b. 1950): Esteemed academic in the field of mathematics, specialising in geometry and topology.

Modern Significance

Today, the surname Gover persists in modern British society, with individuals bearing this name found in various professions and walks of life. It continues to be passed down through generations, maintaining a connection to the history and heritage of those who bore it in centuries past.

In conclusion, the surname Gover is a testament to England's rich linguistic and cultural tapestry, embodying the legacy of those who once laboured as collectors and stewards of financial resources in the medieval period.

There are approximately 1,240 people named Gover in the UK. That makes it roughly the 6,257th most common surname in Britain. Around 19 in a million people in Britain are named Gover.

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

  • Alan
  • Christopher
  • David
  • John
  • Kevin
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Simon
  • Stephen
  • Thomas

Female

  • Ann
  • Claire
  • Emma
  • Heather
  • Jacqueline
  • Janet
  • Karen
  • Linda
  • Louise
  • Margaret
  • Rachel
  • Samantha
  • Susan
  • Wendy
  • Yvonne

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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