INGHAM
Ingham
Pronunciation: In-guhm
Overview: Ingham is a surname of English origin, derived from several place names in the United Kingdom such as Ingham in Norfolk, Lincolnshire, and Yorkshire. The name is of Old English pre-7th century origins, with "Ing" being a personal name of uncertain origin, possibly derived from the Norse god Ingvi-Freyr or from the Old English word "ing", meaning a relation or kinsman. Combined with "ham", meaning homestead or village, Ingham translates to "the homestead of the family or followers of Ing".
History: The Ingham surname can be traced back to the Domesday Book in 1086, which recorded the presence of Inghams in various counties across England. The name has historical significance in the feudal system, with landowning Ingham families holding positions of power and authority in their respective regions.
Distribution: Ingham is a relatively uncommon surname in the United Kingdom, with concentrations in areas such as Norfolk, Lincolnshire, and Yorkshire where the original place names are located. The name has also spread to other English-speaking countries through migration and settlement.
Famous Bearers:
- Oliver Ingham (1823–1878) - British engineer and inventor known for his work in the field of steam engines.
- Lady Augusta Ingham - A fictional character in Charles Dickens' novel "Bleak House".
- Dr. Emily Ingham - Notable academic and researcher in the field of genetic epidemiology.
Modern Usage: Ingham continues to be used as a surname by individuals and families in the modern era, with some variations in spelling depending on family preferences or historical influences. The name may also be combined with other surnames through marriage or other familial connections.
Overall, the surname Ingham carries with it a rich history and a sense of heritage for those who bear it, reflecting the ancestral ties to specific regions in the United Kingdom and the enduring legacy of the Ing family or followers.
There are approximately 9,494 people named Ingham in the UK. That makes it the 980th most common surname in Britain. Around 146 in a million people in Britain are named Ingham.
Surname type: Location or geographical feature
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
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
- Robert
Female
- Elizabeth
- Helen
- Janet
- Jean
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Michelle
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
- Victoria