Lord

Introduction Lord is a British surname that is derived from the Old English word 'hlaford,' meaning 'bread keeper' or 'guardian of the bread.' The surname has aristocratic connotations, often associated with the peerage and nobility in British society.

Origins and History The surname Lord can be traced back to medieval England, where it was used to denote a person of authority or high social status. It is believed that the surname was originally a title of respect for a feudal superior or someone who held a position of power in a community. Over time, the surname became hereditary and was passed down through generations.

Notable Individuals

  • Thomas Lord (1755–1832): English professional cricketer who founded Lord's Cricket Ground in London.
  • Baron George de La Poer Beresford: British peer and member of the House of Lords.
  • Ruth Lord (1918–1999): American musicologist and historian, known for her work in preserving and documenting American folk music.

Modern Significance In contemporary times, the surname Lord continues to be a symbol of status and heritage. Many individuals with the surname Lord can trace their ancestry back to noble or influential families in British history. Today, the surname is widely distributed across the United Kingdom and other English-speaking countries.

Variations and Related Surnames Variations of the surname Lord include Lorde, Lordi, Hlaford, Lard, and Laird. Related surnames include King, Duke, Earl, and Knight, which are also titles associated with the British peerage.

Conclusion The surname Lord carries with it a sense of prestige and history, reflecting the legacy of the British nobility. From its origins in medieval England to its modern-day significance, the surname Lord remains a distinctive symbol of lineage and heritage for many families.

There are approximately 16,734 people named Lord in the UK. That makes it the 533rd most common surname in Britain. Around 257 in a million people in Britain are named Lord.

Surname type: Status 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
  • Anthony
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Stephen

Female

  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Joanne
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Patricia
  • Rebecca
  • Sarah
  • Susan
  • Victoria

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