HIGH
High
Origin and Meaning: The surname "High" is of Old English origin, deriving from the word "hēah", meaning "tall" or "high". It is likely an occupational surname, used to describe someone who lived in a high or elevated location or someone of tall stature.
Distribution: The surname High is primarily found in England, particularly in the counties of Yorkshire, Lancashire, and Buckinghamshire. It has also spread to other English-speaking countries through immigration, notably the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Variants: Variants of the surname High include Hig, Higg, Higgs, Higson, Hegh, Heigh, and Hie.
Notable Individuals:
- John High (1817-1885): A renowned British painter known for his landscapes and portraits.
- Mary High (b. 1952): An influential British author and poet who has received several literary awards for her work.
Coat of Arms: The High family crest features a shield with symbols representing strength, wisdom, and loyalty, surrounded by intricate designs that signify the family's heritage and values.
Famous High Families: The High family has a long and distinguished history in Britain, with many branches of the family achieving prominence in various fields such as politics, business, and the arts.
Legacy: The surname High continues to be passed down through generations, serving as a reminder of the family's ancestral roots and contributions to British society.
References:
- Reaney, P.H., and R.M. Wilson. A Dictionary of English Surnames. Routledge, 1997.
- Hanks, Patrick, et al. The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland. Oxford University Press, 2016.
There are approximately 2,220 people named High in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,864th most common surname in Britain. Around 34 in a million people in Britain are named High.
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
- Anthony
- Christopher
- David
- Graham
- James
- John
- Michael
- Richard
- Robert
- Stephen
Female
- Angela
- Beverley
- Elizabeth
- Jane
- Jean
- Joanne
- Julie
- Kathleen
- Margaret
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan