JEFFERD
Jefferd
Origin and Meaning
Jefferd is a surname of British origin, derived from the personal name Geoffrey, of Old French and Germanic roots. The name Geoffrey itself comes from the Old Germanic name Godfrey, which means "God's peace". Over time, this name evolved into various cognates, including Jefferd.
History
The surname Jefferd dates back to medieval England, where it was a patronymic name, meaning it indicated one's relationship to their father. Individuals who bore the surname Jefferd would likely have been descendants of someone whose given name was Geoff or Geoffrey.
Distribution
The surname Jefferd is relatively rare and is primarily found in certain regions of England. Historical records suggest concentrations of individuals with the Jefferd surname in counties such as Wiltshire, Devon, and Somerset.
Notable Individuals
While the surname Jefferd may not be widely recognised, it is possible that some individuals with this surname have made notable contributions in various fields throughout history. Further research into specific family histories may reveal notable Jefferds who have distinguished themselves in areas such as literature, art, science, politics, or other domains.
Variants
Variant spellings and forms of the surname Jefferd may include Jeffard, Jephard, Jaffard, and others. These variations are common in surnames that have evolved over time and have been subject to different regional pronunciations and spellings.
In conclusion, the surname Jefferd carries with it a rich history rooted in medieval England and is connected to the widespread name Geoffrey. While the surname may not be as prevalent today, it remains a part of the diverse tapestry of British surnames with a story waiting to be uncovered by those interested in genealogy and family history.
There are approximately 51 people named Jefferd in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Jefferd.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
Female