MORRITT

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Morritt

Origin and Meaning: Morritt is an English surname of locational origin, derived from the Old English word 'mor' meaning "moor" or "marsh" and 'hyrde' meaning "herd" or "guardian." It likely originated as a surname for those who lived or worked near a moorland.

Distribution and Frequency: The surname Morritt is relatively rare, with a concentrated distribution in the United Kingdom. It is most commonly found in the northern counties of England, particularly in Yorkshire.

Historical Context: The earliest records of the Morritt surname date back to medieval England. The Morritt family has historical connections to the northern regions of England, where they were known for their involvement in local communities and activities such as farming and land management.

Notable Individuals: One of the most notable individuals with the Morritt surname is John Morritt (1771–1843), an English antiquary, landowner, and Member of Parliament. He was influential in the development of County Durham and North Yorkshire during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Modern Presence: While the Morritt surname may not be as widely known today, descendants of the original Morritt families can still be found across the United Kingdom and in other parts of the world. Some modern Morritts may have established themselves in various professions and industries, reflecting the diverse paths taken by individuals over the generations.

Coat of Arms: The Morritt family crest features elements such as a shield, chevron, and heraldic symbols that reflect the family's history and values. The coat of arms may vary based on specific branches of the family and their individual achievements or affiliations.

Legacy: The Morritt surname carries with it a legacy of resilience, community involvement, and a connection to the English countryside. While the surname may not be as prominent as some others, its historical significance and contributions to local history and culture should not be overlooked.

There are approximately 621 people named Morritt in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around ten in a million people in Britain are named Morritt.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alan
  • Andrew
  • Christopher
  • David
  • Graham
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Robert
  • Simon
  • Stephen
  • Steve
  • William

Female

  • Claire
  • Debbie
  • Emma
  • Helen
  • Janet
  • Jennifer
  • Kathleen
  • Louise
  • Mary
  • Pauline
  • Sarah

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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