KELL

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Kell

Kell is a British surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English personal name "Cell" or "Ceolla", meaning "a youth". The surname Kell is primarily found in England, especially in the southern counties and East Anglia.

The earliest recording of the surname Kell dates back to the 13th century, where it was documented as "de Kell". Over the centuries, the name evolved into various forms including Kelle, Kelley, and Kelly.

Individuals bearing the surname Kell have established diverse occupations and roles throughout history. Some Kells were agricultural labourers, tradesmen, or merchants, while others pursued careers in academia, politics, or the armed forces.

Notable bearers of the Kell surname include Jonathan Kell, a renowned British writer, and Sarah Kell, a prominent academic in the field of archaeology.

The name Kell has retained its presence in contemporary British society, contributing to the nation's rich tapestry of surnames with its deep-rooted heritage and historical significance.

There are approximately 2,093 people named Kell in the UK. That makes it roughly the 4,056th most common surname in Britain. Around 32 in a million people in Britain are named Kell.

Surname type: From given name or forename

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Scotland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

Christopher
David
John
Michael
Paul
Peter
Richard
Robert
Stephen
William

Female

Barbara
Elizabeth
Emma
Helen
Jacqueline
Julie
Karen
Margaret
Marion
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.