PERCIVAL
Percival
Percival is a distinguished British surname with roots in medieval England. The name is of Old French origin, derived from the name 'Perceval' or 'Percival', which was popular during the Middle Ages.
Origins: The surname Percival is believed to have Norman origins, brought to England after the Norman Conquest of 1066. It is thought to be derived from the Old French personal name 'Perceval', composed of the elements 'percer' meaning 'to pierce' and 'val' meaning 'valley'. This suggests that the name Percival may have originated as a nickname for someone who lived near a pierced valley or a valley that cut through a geographical feature.
Historical Significance: The name Percival gained prominence in medieval England, and the most famous bearer of the name is Sir Percival, one of the Knights of the Round Table in Arthurian legend. Sir Percival is known for his quest for the Holy Grail, a key figure in Arthurian literature and folklore. The tales of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table have contributed to the enduring popularity of the name Percival.
Variants: Over time, the surname Percival has undergone various spelling variations, including Percivall, Perceval, and Percivale. Different regions and historical periods have influenced the spelling of the surname, resulting in a diverse range of variants.
Distribution: The surname Percival is most commonly found in England, particularly in regions with historical connections to the medieval period. It is a surname that has been passed down through generations, reflecting a lasting connection to British heritage and tradition.
Famous Individuals: Throughout history, individuals bearing the surname Percival have made notable contributions in various fields, including literature, art, and academia. Notable figures such as Percival Lowell, a prominent American astronomer, have helped to elevate the reputation of the surname in global contexts.
Legacy: The surname Percival carries a rich historical legacy, symbolising chivalry, bravery, and quest for the noble ideals. Its ties to Arthurian legend and medieval England have imbued it with a sense of heritage and tradition that continues to resonate with individuals bearing the name today.
There are approximately 8,943 people named Percival in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,061st most common surname in Britain. Around 137 in a million people in Britain are named Percival.
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
- Alan
- Andrew
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Richard
- Robert
- Stephen
Female
- Christine
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Helen
- Jane
- Jean
- Joanne
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Ruth
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.