Petre

Petre is a British surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English personal name "Pæt(h)er", which means "rock" or "stone". The surname Petre is predominantly found in the southeast of England, with significant concentrations in areas such as Essex and Kent.

Origins and History

The Petre family has a long and distinguished history in England, with records dating back to medieval times. The surname has been borne by various notable individuals, including Sir William Petre (c. 1505-1572), who was a prominent Tudor statesman and served as Secretary of State to four English monarchs.

The Petre family is associated with Ingatestone Hall in Essex, which has been their ancestral home since the 16th century. The current head of the family holds the title of Baron Petre. The family has been influential in politics, religion, and society, with members serving in various official capacities over the centuries.

Notable Individuals

  • Sir William Petre (c. 1505-1572): Tudor statesman and Secretary of State.
  • Robert Petre, 9th Baron Petre (1742-1801): Prominent Catholic peer and landowner.
  • Sir Edward Petre (1631-1699): Jesuit priest and confessor to King James II.

References

  1. Reaney, P. H., & Wilson, R. M. (1997). A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford University Press.
  2. The Peerage. (n.d.). Petre family. Retrieved from http://www.thepeerage.com

There are approximately 549 people named Petre in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around eight in a million people in Britain are named Petre.

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

  • Alexander
  • Andrei
  • Brian
  • Daniel
  • David
  • Edward
  • George
  • James
  • John
  • Keon
  • Mark
  • Nathaniel
  • Robert

Female

  • Caroline
  • Claire
  • Cornelia
  • Deborah
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Marian
  • Melanie
  • Michelle
  • Mihaela
  • Rachel
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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