ISHERWOOD
Isherwood
Origin and Meaning
Isherwood is an English surname of Norman origin, derived from the Old English personal name "Isard" or "Isward," which means "God's watchman" or "guardian of victory." The name is chiefly found in the northern counties of England, particularly Lancashire and Yorkshire.
History
The surname Isherwood dates back to the late 12th century when the Normans introduced hereditary surnames to England. Over the centuries, the Isherwood family has spread across different regions of the country, including Lancashire, Yorkshire, and Cheshire.
During the medieval period, the Isherwood family held social standing and landownership, with records showing them as landowners in Lancashire. The name has maintained a presence in British history through various individuals bearing the surname, including artists, writers, and notable figures in different fields.
Notable Individuals
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Christopher Isherwood (1904-1986): A prominent British-American novelist, playwright, and screenwriter known for his works such as "Goodbye to Berlin" and "A Single Man."
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Kathryn Isherwood: A contemporary artist known for her innovative approach to sculpture and installation art.
Variants
Variants of the surname Isherwood include Isward, Ishward, Iswarde, and Ishwode.
Modern Distribution
In modern times, the surname Isherwood remains relatively uncommon but can be found in various parts of the United Kingdom and beyond, often with descendants migrating to other English-speaking countries.
Coat of Arms
The Isherwood family coat of arms features traditional heraldic design elements such as shields, mottos, and symbols that represent the family's history and values.
Conclusion
The surname Isherwood carries a rich history rooted in Norman and Old English origins. From medieval landowners to contemporary artists and writers, individuals bearing this surname have made significant contributions to British culture and society. The name continues to be an enduring part of British heritage, reflecting the diverse tapestry of the nation's history.
There are approximately 4,376 people named Isherwood in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,145th most common surname in Britain. Around 67 in a million people in Britain are named Isherwood.
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
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Robert
Female
- Carol
- Elizabeth
- Helen
- Jean
- Judith
- Julie
- June
- Karen
- Margaret
- Patricia
- Sandra
- Sarah
- Susan