PURCELL
Purcell
Origin and Meaning: Purcell is an English surname of Old French and Latin origins. The name is derived from the Old French personal name "Porcel," which means piglet, and was likely used as a nickname for someone who bore a resemblance to a piglet or perhaps worked with pigs.
History: The Purcell surname can be traced back to medieval England, with records dating as far back as the 11th century. The name has varied spellings over the centuries, including Purcel, Pursell, Pursill, Purzell, and Porsnell.
Notable Individuals:
Some notable individuals bearing the surname Purcell include:
- Henry Purcell (1659-1695): A famous English composer known for his Baroque music compositions, including operas, sacred music, and instrumental pieces.
- John Francis Purcell (1800-1883): An Irish Roman Catholic bishop who served as the Archbishop of Cincinnati in the United States.
- Gerry Purcell: A contemporary British artist known for his unique style and use of bold colours and intricate patterns in his artwork.
Distribution: The Purcell surname is most commonly found in Ireland, England, and Australia, with significant populations also in the United States and Canada. The name has spread worldwide due to migration and emigration patterns over the centuries.
Coat of Arms: The Purcell family crest typically features symbols associated with strength, loyalty, and honour. The crest may include elements such as lions, fleurs-de-lis, and shields, reflecting the family's heritage.
In Summary: The Purcell surname is a longstanding and distinguished name with roots in medieval England. Through the centuries, individuals bearing this name have made notable contributions in various fields, including music, art, and religious leadership. The Purcell family crest is emblematic of their proud heritage and traditions.
There are approximately 7,255 people named Purcell in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,292nd most common surname in Britain. Around 111 in a million people in Britain are named Purcell.
Surname type: Location or geographical feature
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
- Stephen
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Barbara
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Kathleen
- Lesley
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.