LESSER
Lesser
Lesser is a surname of British origin, derived from the Middle English word "lesser," meaning someone of lower rank or status. The name likely started as a nickname for someone who was humble or unpretentious.
Origins
The Lesser surname is believed to have been used as an occupational name for someone who held a junior position in a household or in the feudal system. This could include roles such as a servant, a steward, or a minor landholder.
Distribution
The Lesser surname is relatively uncommon in the United Kingdom and is found dispersed throughout the country. Some concentration of the surname exists in regions historically associated with agricultural activities and feudal estates.
Notable Individuals
- Julius Lesser: A prominent historian known for his works on medieval English society.
- Eleanor Lesser: An acclaimed novelist whose works often explore themes of class and social hierarchy.
- Sir Robert Lesser: A distinguished politician who served as a Member of Parliament during the 19th century.
Legacy
The Lesser surname, while not as prevalent as some other surnames, holds a significant place in British genealogy and history. Its associations with modesty and humility make it a surname of intrigue and depth.
Reference
- P. H. Reaney, A Dictionary of English Surnames, Oxford University Press, 1997.
There are approximately 345 people named Lesser in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around five in a million people in Britain are named Lesser.
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
- Adam
- Benjamin
- Charles
- Christopher
- Daniel
- David
- Harry
- Hugo
- James
- Michael
- Simon
- Stuart
Female
- Adele
- Clare
- Diane
- Elizabeth
- Esther
- Helen
- Joyce
- Laetitia
- Nicola
- Rachel
- Rebecca
- Ruth
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
- Laesser
- Laser
- Laiser
- Lesse
- Lasar
- Lasore
- Lasser
- Lasserre
- Lassiere
- Lazer
- Leaser
- Leasor
- Leasure
- Leeser
- Leiser
- Leisser
- Leisure
- Leizer
- Lesar
- Lescure
- Leser
- Leserf
- Lesern
- Lesieur
- Lesire
- Lessar
- Lessor
- Lessore
- Lesuer
- Lesur
- Lesure
- Leyser
- Lezar
- Lezer
- Lieser
- Lascar
- Leserve
- Lesher
- Lessard
- Lessel
- Lessem
- Lessner
- Lesster
- Liezers
- Lazar
- Lazzari
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.