OXNAM
Oxnam
Oxnam is a surname of English origin, derived from the Old English words "oxa" meaning ox and "ham" meaning homestead. This surname is locational in nature, referring to someone who lived near or at an ox farm or homestead.
History
The Oxnam surname is primarily found in the border region of England and Scotland, specifically in the village of Oxnam in the Scottish Borders. The first recorded use of the surname dates back to the 13th century, where it was commonly found in legal documents and land records.
Notable Individuals
- Rev. Dr. Walter James Oxnam (1852-1951): A prominent Methodist bishop and theologian known for his progressive views and contributions to the development of the Methodist Church.
Variants
Variants of the surname Oxnam include Oxnham and Okesnam. These variations may have arisen due to phonetic spelling variations or regional dialects.
Distribution
The surname Oxnam is relatively rare, with most individuals bearing the name found in the United Kingdom, particularly in regions with historical ties to the Scottish Borders and Northumberland in England.
References
- P.H. Reaney, R.M. Wilson, A Dictionary of English Surnames, Oxford University Press, 2005.
- G.M. Redmonds, Names and History: People, Places and Things, Hambledon Continuum, 2004.
There are approximately 20 people named Oxnam in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Fewer than one in a million people in Britain are named Oxnam.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Anthony
- Ben
- Daniel
- David
- Phillip
Female
- Alice
- Emma