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.

Typical given names associated with the Overfield 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

How to communicate the surname Overfield in...

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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

The Genealogist - UK census, BMDs and more online

Famous people named Overfield

  • Jackie Overfield - Football player

Names and descriptions courtesy of Wikipedia, and may contain errors. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of every famous person with this name.

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