ORMSHAW
Ormshaw
Origin and Meaning
Ormshaw is a surname of British origin, primarily found in the north-west region of England. The surname is of Anglo-Saxon and Old Norse origin, derived from the Old English personal name "Orm" meaning serpent or dragon, and the Old Norse element "shaw" meaning woodland or small wood. The combination of these elements suggests a reference to a person living near a serpent-shaped woodland or perhaps someone with serpent-like qualities.
Distribution and History
The surname Ormshaw is relatively rare and is most commonly found in Lancashire and Greater Manchester areas of England. The earliest records of the surname date back to the late 17th century, suggesting that it has ancient roots in the region. The Ormshaw family may have been involved in occupations such as farming, forestry, or land management in the rural areas of Lancashire.
Notable Individuals
While the Ormshaw surname may not be widely recognised on a global scale, there may be notable individuals who have borne this surname and contributed to various fields such as literature, arts, or sciences. Further research and genealogical studies would be needed to identify and recognise any notable Ormshaws throughout history.
In conclusion, the Ormshaw surname is a distinctive and regionally specific British surname with a fascinating etymology rooted in the language and landscape of historic England. Its rarity adds to its allure and makes it a subject of interest for those exploring local history and genealogy in the Lancashire and Greater Manchester regions.
There are approximately 132 people named Ormshaw in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Ormshaw.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Brian
- David
- Edward
- Gary
- Ian
- James
- John
- Martin
- Nathan
- Peter
- Stuart
Female
- Alison
- Barbara
- Beverley
- Eileen
- Elizabeth
- Krista
- Nadine
- Sophie
- Stacey
- Suzanne