Petch

Petch is a surname of British origin that is found predominantly in the northern regions of England, particularly in Yorkshire. The name is of topographical origin, derived from the Old English word "pech" or "pecche," meaning a pit or hollow, and was used to describe someone who lived by a hollow or depression in the land.

Origins

The surname Petch most likely originated as a nickname for individuals who lived in or near a hollow or pit, which could have been a geographical feature or possibly an excavated area such as a quarry. Over time, this nickname became a hereditary surname passed down through generations.

Distribution and Variants

The distribution of the Petch surname is primarily concentrated in Yorkshire, where many families of this name can be traced back for centuries. Variants of the surname include variations in spelling such as Pech, Peche, and Peetch, reflecting the changes in language and dialect over time.

Notable Individuals

Throughout history, several individuals bearing the surname Petch have made notable contributions in various fields. One such example is Fenella Petch, a renowned archaeologist known for her pioneering work in the excavation of Roman settlements in Britain.

Contemporary Significance

In contemporary times, the surname Petch continues to be held by individuals across the UK and beyond, with many descendants of the original Yorkshire families now residing in different parts of the world. The name serves as a link to the past and a marker of familial heritage for those who bear it.

Overall, the British surname Petch carries with it a sense of regional identity and history, reflecting the landscape and communities of northern England where it first originated.

There are approximately 2,594 people named Petch in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,417th most common surname in Britain. Around 40 in a million people in Britain are named Petch.

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
  • Anthony
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Robert
  • Stephen
  • Thomas

Female

  • Amanda
  • Andrea
  • Anne
  • Barbara
  • Claire
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Karen
  • Lisa
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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