PAYN

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Payn

The surname Payn is of medieval English origin, with variations including Paine, Payne, or Pane. It is derived from the Old French name "Pagen", which means 'a pagan' or 'a villager'.

The origin of the surname Payn can be traced back to the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, when the Normans brought their language and customs to the British Isles. The surname was likely introduced by Norman settlers and established as a hereditary surname in England.

Over the centuries, the surname Payn has spread throughout the British Isles and beyond, with notable bearers including John Payne (a 18th-century British actor) and Freda Mary Payne (a 20th-century British actress).

Today, the surname Payn continues to be found in the United Kingdom, as well as in countries with historic ties to British immigration, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Like many surnames, variations in spelling have occurred over time due to dialect and transcription differences. Despite these variations, the surname Payn retains its historical significance as a reminder of the Norman influence on British culture and language.

There are approximately 388 people named Payn in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around six in a million people in Britain are named Payn.

Surname type: From given name or forename

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
David
Ian
John
Jonathan
Martin
Peter
Richard
Robert
Roger
Thomas

Female

Amanda
Clare
Deborah
Emma
Helen
Janet
Jennifer
Judith
Linda
Lucy
Patricia
Penelope
Samantha
Sarah

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.