OVER
Over
Origin and Meaning: The surname Over is of English origin, specifically rooted in the region of Cheshire. It is derived from the Old English word "ofer," meaning "bank" or "shore." The name Over was originally used to describe someone who lived by a riverbank or on the shore of a body of water.
Historical Significance: The Over surname has been recorded in historical documents dating back to the medieval period in England. The name is found in parish records, census data, and heraldic documents, reflecting its enduring presence in British history.
Distribution and Migration: Over is a relatively rare surname in the United Kingdom, with the majority of individuals bearing this surname located in the Midlands and North West regions. Over has also been found in parts of the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, likely through migration and colonial expansion.
Famous Individuals:
- John Over (1843-1920): English businessman and philanthropist known for his support of local charities in Cheshire.
- Elizabeth Over (1899-1978): Noted British author and poet, celebrated for her works on rural life in the English countryside.
Coat of Arms: The Over family coat of arms typically features elements symbolising strength, stability, and a connection to water. The crest may include a depiction of water or riverbanks, reflecting the name's initial association with these landscapes.
Modern-Day: While the surname Over may not be as common as others, its legacy continues through modern-day descendants who proudly bear the name. Some individuals may have explored their ancestry and genealogy to uncover more about the origins of the Over family name.
There are approximately 810 people named Over in the UK. That makes it roughly the 8,684th most common surname in Britain. Around 12 in a million people in Britain are named Over.
Surname type: Occupational name
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
- Andrew
- Anthony
- Brian
- David
- Jeremy
- John
- Michael
- Peter
- Richard
- Robert
- Stephen
Female
- Brigitte
- Eileen
- Elizabeth
- Janet
- Jean
- Karen
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Pamela
- Rebecca
- Sarah
- Susan
- Victoria
- Wendy
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.