LAWLESS
Lawless
The surname Lawless is of Anglo-Saxon origin, deriving from the Old English word "laes" meaning 'law' with the suffix "-less" which signifies 'without'. As a surname, Lawless is thought to have originated as a nickname for someone who lived outside the bounds of the law or did not adhere to societal norms.
The distribution of the Lawless surname is mainly found in Ireland, with significant numbers also in the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom. The name has Irish roots, originating from the Gaelic O'Laoghaire, marking it as an anglicised form of the Irish surname.
Individuals bearing the surname Lawless have made remarkable contributions in various fields, be it in academia, politics, arts, or entertainment. Noteworthy figures include the actress Lucy Lawless, who gained fame for her role in the television series 'Xena: Warrior Princess', and the poet and playwright Edward Lawless.
The surname Lawless holds a place in British genealogy, testament to the diverse and varied heritage of the British Isles. As with many surnames, the history and prominence of the Lawless family name continue to evolve as generations pass and individuals make their mark on society.
There are approximately 3,349 people named Lawless in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,719th most common surname in Britain. Around 51 in a million people in Britain are named Lawless.
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Ireland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Anthony
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Stephen
Female
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Jacqueline
- Jennifer
- Joanne
- Lesley
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
- Victoria