OVERFIELD
Overfield
Origin: Overfield is a locational surname that has its root in the place name "Overfield," which is derived from the Old English words "ofer" meaning "above" and "feld" meaning "field."
Early Records: The surname Overfield has been recorded in various forms over the centuries, including Overfeld, Ouerfield, and Ouerfeld. The earliest recorded instance of the surname dates back to the 13th century in the county of Yorkshire. The surname was often used to distinguish families who lived near or owned land that was situated above a field.
Distribution: The surname Overfield is relatively rare, with most occurrences found in the United Kingdom, particularly in the northern counties of Yorkshire and Lancashire, where the name has historical roots. Over time, however, individuals bearing the surname have migrated to other parts of the country and overseas.
Notable Individuals:
- John Overfield (1875–1953): A noted botanist and mycologist who made significant contributions to the study of fungi and plant pathology.
- Susan Overfield (b. 1980): A contemporary artist known for her innovative use of mixed media and bold colours in her works.
Coat of Arms: The Overfield family does not have an officially recognised coat of arms, although there have been instances of individuals creating personalised coats of arms based on the surname.
Modern Variants: Variants of the Overfield surname may include Overfeld, Overfield, Ouerfield, and Ouerfeld.
References:
- P. H. Reaney, A Dictionary of English Surnames, Oxford University Press, 1997.
- G. Redmonds, Surnames and Genealogy: A New Approach, Dundurn, 2002.
There are approximately 397 people named Overfield in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around six in a million people in Britain are named Overfield.
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
- Adam
- Christopher
- David
- Ian
- John
- Mark
- Martin
- Matthew
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
- Robert
- William
Female
- Ann
- Barbara
- Christine
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Janet
- Judith
- Kathleen
- Lesley
- Margaret
- Rachel
- Samantha
- Sarah
- Virginia