GRAVES

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Graves

The surname Graves is of English origin, deriving from the Old English word 'graf', meaning ditch or trench. This surname is a toponymic one, indicating that the original bearers were residents near a ditch or trench.

The Graves surname is most commonly found in southern England, particularly in the counties of Surrey, Kent, and Sussex. The name has ancient roots in the region, with recorded instances dating back to the medieval period.

Notable individuals bearing the surname Graves include the renowned British poet and writer Robert Graves (1895–1985), whose works, such as "I, Claudius," have left a lasting impact on literature. Additionally, eminent figures like the actor Rupert Graves and the British politician Philip Graves have contributed to the legacy of the name.

Over time, the Graves surname has spread beyond the borders of the United Kingdom, with descendants of Graves families establishing themselves in various parts of the world, particularly in the United States and Canada.

In modern times, the Graves surname continues to be a prominent and respected name, representing a rich history of English heritage and contributions to various fields of endeavour.

There are approximately 8,988 people named Graves in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,056th most common surname in Britain. Around 138 in a million people in Britain are named Graves.

Surname type: From name of parent

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
John
Mark
Michael
Paul
Peter
Richard
Robert

Female

Christine
Claire
Elizabeth
Emma
Janet
Jean
Lisa
Margaret
Mary
Patricia
Sarah
Susan

Similar and related surnames

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