Leeper

Leeper is an English surname of Old English origin. The name is derived from the word "leper", which was used to describe a person suffering from leprosy, a chronic infectious disease. Over time, the meaning of the surname evolved to refer to a person who worked as a leaper or dancer.

The Leeper surname is believed to have originated in the medieval period and is primarily found in regions across England, particularly in the northern counties. The name has various spellings and variations including Lepere, Leaper, Lepor, and Leppard.

Throughout history, individuals bearing the surname Leeper have been associated with diverse professions and served in various roles within the community. The Leeper name may have been borne by farmers, labourers, landowners, merchants, and other occupational groups.

The Leeper family name has likely spread to other English-speaking countries through migration and emigration, particularly during the period of colonisation and settlement in the British Empire.

Today, the surname Leeper is relatively uncommon but continues to be present in genealogical records and family histories. Individuals and families bearing the Leeper name can trace their heritage back to the English origins of the surname, reflecting a rich history of the people associated with the name over the centuries.

There are approximately 346 people named Leeper in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around five in a million people in Britain are named Leeper.

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

  • Anthony
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Kim
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Shane
  • Simon
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Alison
  • Carol
  • Caroline
  • Claire
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Gaynor
  • Gillian
  • Jacqueline
  • Jennifer
  • Margaret
  • Nicola
  • Tamsin
  • Victoria

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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