Ledger

The surname Ledger is of English origin and is classified as a habitation name, derived from various places named "Ledger" in England. These place names are believed to have originated from the Old English word "hlǣd-gere," meaning a shelter or a shed. The surname Ledger is thought to have been given to those who resided near or worked at such locations.

The Ledger surname has been recorded in various regions of England throughout history, with notable concentrations in the counties of Yorkshire, Lancashire, and Kent. This distribution suggests that different branches of the Ledger family may have originated independently in these areas.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the surname is that of Adam de Legger, who appears in the Assize Rolls of Yorkshire in 1219. Over the centuries, individuals bearing the name Ledger have made significant contributions in various fields, including literature, politics, and the arts.

Famous bearers of the Ledger surname include the acclaimed Australian actor Heath Ledger (1979-2008), known for his roles in films such as "Brokeback Mountain" and "The Dark Knight." Heath Ledger's talent and versatility in the film industry have cemented the surname's recognition in popular culture.

The Ledger surname continues to be borne by people of diverse backgrounds, reflecting the rich heritage and history associated with this English surname. Its prevalence in England and beyond contributes to its enduring significance in the realm of genealogy and family history research.

There are approximately 4,369 people named Ledger in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,149th most common surname in Britain. Around 67 in a million people in Britain are named Ledger.

Surname type: Occupational name

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
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Ann
  • Anne
  • Denise
  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Janet
  • Joanne
  • Karen
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Rebecca
  • Sarah
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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