PETTIFER
Pettifer
Pettifer is a surname of English origin, primarily found in the United Kingdom. The name is derived from the Old French word "petit," meaning small, and the suffix "-fer," which implies someone who brings or carries. As a result, the name may have originally denoted a diminutive or endearing term for someone who was small but capable or someone who carried themselves with a certain charm or grace.
History and Distribution
The surname Pettifer can be traced back to medieval England, where it was first recorded in various forms such as "Pettifor" or "Pettyfer." Over the centuries, the name has spread across different regions of the United Kingdom and can still be found in areas with historical ties to the original family lineages.
Notable Individuals
- Dr. Jessica Pettifer: Notable British historian and author known for her works on medieval English literature.
- Sir William Pettifer: Esteemed judge in the 19th century known for his contributions to British legal history.
Variants and Derivatives
Variants of the name Pettifer include "Pettyfer," "Petifor," and "Petipher." These variations may have arisen due to different regional pronunciations or historical spelling conventions.
Legacy
The Pettifer name carries with it a legacy of resilience, intelligence, and sophistication, often associated with individuals who excel in their chosen fields. Today, descendants of the Pettifer family continue to uphold the values and traditions associated with their surname, contributing to various sectors such as academia, law, and the arts.
There are approximately 1,499 people named Pettifer in the UK. That makes it roughly the 5,349th most common surname in Britain. Around 23 in a million people in Britain are named Pettifer.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Allan
- Andrew
- Anthony
- David
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Richard
- Robert
- Roger
- Simon
- Stephen
Female
- Christine
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Hannah
- Jane
- Laura
- Margaret
- Sandra
- Sarah
- Susan