Grieves

The surname Grieves is of Scottish origin, derived from the Old English word greve, meaning steward or overseer. The name is an occupational surname, indicating someone who held a position of authority, particularly in the management of estates or farms.

The Grieves family has a long history in Scotland, with records dating back to the medieval period. The name is most commonly found in the border regions of Scotland, where families with the surname played significant roles in local governance and administration.

Over time, the Grieves surname has spread beyond Scotland, with branches of the family establishing themselves in various parts of England and even further afield. Today, individuals with the surname Grieves can be found across the United Kingdom and in other English-speaking countries.

Like many surnames, variations in spelling have occurred over the centuries, including Greaves and Greeves. Despite these variations, the Grieves name continues to be a reminder of a bygone era when stewardship and overseeing were valued roles in society.

In modern times, individuals bearing the Grieves surname can be found engaged in a wide range of professions and pursuits, reflecting the diverse nature of contemporary British society.

There are approximately 1,611 people named Grieves in the UK. That makes it roughly the 5,038th most common surname in Britain. Around 25 in a million people in Britain are named Grieves.

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
  • Andrew
  • Christopher
  • David
  • Ian
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Robert
  • Thomas

Female

  • Dorothy
  • Jane
  • Janice
  • Joanne
  • Julie
  • Karen
  • Mary
  • Michelle
  • Nicola
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan
  • Victoria

Similar and related surnames

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

BritishSurnames.uk is a Good Stuff website.