Orford

Orford is a surname of English origin, primarily found in the East Anglian region of the United Kingdom. The name Orford is believed to have derived from the Old English words 'ora', meaning shore or bank, and 'ford', referring to a shallow section of a river or stream that can be crossed on foot.

Origins

Orford is thought to have originated as a locational surname, indicating that the bearers of the name hailed from a place named Orford. One notable place linked with the surname is Orford, a small town in Suffolk, England. This coastal town has a rich maritime history, known for its castle and quayside, which may have contributed to the association of the surname with seafaring or coastal activities.

Historical Significance

The first recorded instance of the Orford surname dates back to the early 13th century in England. The name has historical significance, with individuals bearing the surname Orford documented in various records, including census data, parish registers, and land deeds. The surname may have been passed down through generations, indicating a familial connection to a specific geographical location or ancestral occupation.

Notable Individuals

Notable individuals bearing the surname Orford include figures from literature, politics, and other fields. Research into the family history of the Orford name could provide insight into the lives and achievements of these individuals and their contributions to British society.

Contemporary Presence

While the Orford surname may not be as common as some other British surnames, it continues to be present in modern-day England and beyond. The name has likely spread through migration and settlement, with Orfords residing in various parts of the world.

In conclusion, the surname Orford holds a place in British history and genealogy, reflecting the heritage and origins of families associated with this distinctive name. Further exploration of the Orford surname could unveil intriguing connections to the past and shed light on the enduring legacy of this English surname.

There are approximately 1,607 people named Orford in the UK. That makes it roughly the 5,058th most common surname in Britain. Around 25 in a million people in Britain are named Orford.

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

  • David
  • Ian
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Philip
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Stephen
  • William

Female

  • Christine
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Helen
  • Jennifer
  • Joanna
  • Joanne
  • Lesley
  • Lisa
  • Margaret
  • Patricia
  • Philippa
  • Susan

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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