ORMONDE
Ormonde
Ormonde is an ancient British surname which originated from the Old French word "orme," meaning "elm tree," and the Old English word "dun," meaning "hill." The surname has a long and illustrious history in British and Irish genealogy.
Origins
The name Ormonde is associated with the aristocratic Butler family, who descended from Theobald Walter, a chief Butler of Ireland in the 12th century. The surname became prominent in the Middle Ages and was adopted as a title by members of the Butler family, who held the title of "Earl of Ormonde," one of the premier titles in the Irish peerage.
Clan Connections
The Ormonde family has strong connections to the province of Munster in Ireland, particularly to County Kilkenny, where they held vast estates and wielded significant influence. The Butlers of Ormonde played key roles in Irish politics and society for centuries, often being appointed as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland and holding positions of power at court.
Heraldry
The Ormonde family crest features various symbols, including a red chief with three gold cups, a lance with a hand holding a wreath, and a motto that reads "Comme Je Trouve," which translates to "As I find." These heraldic symbols represent the family's noble lineage, victories, and values.
Legacy
Today, the surname Ormonde is relatively rare compared to its historical significance, but it still carries a sense of prestige and heritage. Descendants of the Butler family with the surname Ormonde can be found across the British Isles and beyond, maintaining a connection to their notable past.
Notable Individuals
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James Butler, 1st Duke of Ormonde (1610–1688): A prominent statesman and soldier who played a crucial role in the English Civil War and the Glorious Revolution.
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Charles Butler, 7th Earl of Ormonde (1671–1758): Known for his contributions to the Irish peerage and his involvement in political affairs during the 18th century.
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Eliza Emily Donnithorne née Ormonde (1826–1886): The inspiration for the character of Miss Havisham in Charles Dickens' novel "Great Expectations."
The surname Ormonde continues to evoke a sense of history and nobility, reflecting the rich tapestry of British and Irish heritage.
There are approximately 308 people named Ormonde in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around five in a million people in Britain are named Ormonde.
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Ireland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Christopher
- David
- James
- Jerome
- John
- Joseph
- Karl
- Michael
- Patrick
- Robert
- Ryan
- Sidney
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Brenda
- Bridget
- Caroline
- Donna
- Edith
- Elizabeth
- Joanne
- Kelly
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Simone
- Susan
- Zoe