RATES
Rates
Rates is a British surname with origins rooted in medieval England. The name is derived from the Old English word "rād," meaning counsel or advice, and was often used to identify individuals who were known for giving wise counsel or making important decisions. Over time, the surname Rates has been recorded in various forms, including Raits, Rays, and Raetz.
Historically, individuals bearing the surname Rates were often linked to positions of authority or leadership within their communities. They may have served as advisors to local lords, acted as decision-makers in legal matters, or held other significant roles where their counsel was highly valued.
The distribution of the Rates surname is documented across the United Kingdom, with notable concentrations in regions such as Yorkshire, Lancashire, and the Midlands. Migration and emigration have also spread the name to countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Today, individuals with the surname Rates can be found in various professions and walks of life, continuing to carry on the historical legacy associated with their name. Research into family history and genealogy can provide further insights into the origins and branches of the Rates surname, connecting modern bearers with their rich and diverse heritage.
There are approximately 37 people named Rates in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Rates.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Clive
- Philip
Female