Murrell

Murrell is an Old English surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, deriving from the personal name Muriel, a diminutive form of Maurice. The name was introduced to England by the Normans in the 11th century and has since evolved into the modern surname Murrell.

Origins and Distribution

The surname Murrell is primarily found in the southern regions of England, particularly in the counties of Sussex, Surrey, and Kent. It is believed to have originated as a locational surname, derived from the place name Muriel, possibly a lost medieval village or a small hamlet.

Notable Individuals

Over the centuries, several notable individuals have borne the surname Murrell, including:

  • George Murrell (1808–1877): An English cricketer who played for Surrey in the 1830s.
  • Isabella Murrell (1854–1923): A renowned British painter known for her landscape artworks.
  • David Murrell (b. 1965): A contemporary British author and historian specialising in medieval studies.

Variants and Spellings

Variants of the surname Murrell include Muriel, Morrill, and Morrell. The spelling of the name has evolved over time due to variations in dialect and regional accents.

Coat of Arms

The Murrell family coat of arms typically features symbols associated with strength, loyalty, and honour. The heraldic imagery often includes lions, shields, and crosses, reflecting the family's heritage and values.

In Popular Culture

The surname Murrell has occasionally been referenced in British literature and popular culture, often symbolising courage, nobility, and long-standing traditions.

In conclusion, the surname Murrell has a rich history and remains a prominent part of British heritage, symbolising a sense of identity and belonging for those who bear the name.

There are approximately 4,533 people named Murrell in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,068th most common surname in Britain. Around 70 in a million people in Britain are named Murrell.

Surname type: Location or geographical feature

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

  • Alan
  • Andrew
  • Anthony
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Ann
  • Christine
  • Emma
  • Julie
  • Karen
  • Linda
  • Margaret
  • Nicola
  • Patricia
  • Samantha
  • Sarah
  • Sheila
  • Susan
  • Tracy

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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