LAMPREY
Lamprey
Overview: The surname Lamprey is of English origin and is derived from the Old French word "lamprey", which refers to a type of eel-like fish. It is believed that the surname Lamprey may have been used as a nickname for someone who resembled or had characteristics similar to the lamprey fish.
Distribution: The surname Lamprey is found predominantly in the United Kingdom, particularly in regions such as Essex, Kent, and Sussex. Over time, individuals bearing the surname Lamprey have dispersed to other English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia.
Notable Individuals:
- Richard Lamprey (1777-1851) - an English silk weaver and political activist who played a significant role in the early labour movement in Britain.
- Sarah Lamprey - a contemporary British fashion photographer known for her artistic and innovative approach to capturing images.
Trivia:
- The lamprey is a type of jawless fish with a distinctive sucker-like mouth, and it has been referenced in various historical and literary works for its unique appearance and characteristics.
References:
- Hanks, P., Hodges, F., & Mills, A. D. (2016). Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland. Oxford University Press.
- Reaney, P. H., & Wilson, R. M. (1997). A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford University Press.
There are approximately 230 people named Lamprey in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around four in a million people in Britain are named Lamprey.
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
- David
- James
- John
- Jonathan
- Mark
- Martin
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Philip
- Stanley
- Stephen
Female
- Carole
- Caroline
- Christine
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Gemma
- Joan
- Julie-anne
- Nicola
- Patricia
- Susan
- Veronica