Lever

The surname Lever is of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English word "lafere," meaning "reed" or "rush." It is classified as a topographical surname, indicating that the original bearer lived near an area abundant in reeds or rushes. The surname Lever is predominantly found in the northern regions of England, especially in counties such as Lancashire, Yorkshire, and Cheshire.

The first recorded instance of the surname Lever dates back to the early 13th century, where a family bearing this name resided in Lancashire. Over time, the surname proliferated and spread across various regions in England and beyond, due to factors such as migration, marriage, and economic opportunities.

Notable bearers of the surname Lever include the industrialist and philanthropist William Lever, 1st Viscount Leverhulme, who founded the Lever Brothers soap manufacturing company, now known as Unilever. The Lever name has also been associated with accomplishments in various fields, including business, academia, sports, and the arts.

Today, the surname Lever remains a common and esteemed surname in Britain, signifying a heritage rooted in the landscapes and communities where its early bearers once lived.

There are approximately 5,087 people named Lever in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,854th most common surname in Britain. Around 78 in a million people in Britain are named Lever.

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
  • Brian
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Robert

Female

  • Catherine
  • Christine
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Janet
  • Julie
  • Karen
  • Margaret
  • Rachel
  • Rebecca
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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