Meader

Meader is a surname of British origin, typically found in the South West of England. The surname has Old English roots, deriving from the word "meadow", indicating someone who lived near or worked in a meadow.

History and Distribution

The surname Meader can be traced back to medieval England, where it likely originated as a topographic name for someone who lived by a meadow or a grassy clearing. Over time, families with this surname spread to various parts of England, with notable concentrations in Devon and Somerset.

Notable Individuals

While the Meader surname may not be as widely recognised as some others, there have been individuals throughout history who have borne this name and made significant contributions in various fields.

One notable figure is John Meader, a 19th-century British botanist known for his work in horticulture. Another example is Emily Meader, a prominent suffragette who fought for women’s voting rights in the early 20th century.

Modern Distribution

Today, the Meader surname continues to be found in the South West of England, as well as in other parts of the UK and around the world due to migration and family dispersal. Variants of the surname, such as Meador or Meadow, may also be encountered.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the surname Meader holds a place in British history and genealogy, with its origins rooted in the English landscape. While not as widely known as some other surnames, individuals with this name have made their mark in various fields, contributing to the rich tapestry of British society.

There are approximately 678 people named Meader in the UK. That makes it roughly the 9,925th most common surname in Britain. Around ten in a million people in Britain are named Meader.

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
  • Anthony
  • David
  • Graham
  • James
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Robert
  • Scott
  • Stephen
  • Steven
  • William

Female

  • Adele
  • Beverley
  • Claire
  • Doreen
  • Heidi
  • Jean
  • Julie
  • Karen
  • Kerry
  • Margaret
  • Samantha
  • Sarah
  • Susan
  • Victoria

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