Ratliff

Origin: Ratliff is a surname of English origin, deriving from the Old English personal name "Red(e)laf", meaning "counselor wolf". It has been recorded in various spellings over the centuries, including Ratliffe, Ratliff, Ratleafe, and Ratlyff.

Distribution: The surname Ratliff is most commonly found in the southern counties of England, particularly in regions such as Yorkshire and Lancashire. However, its distribution has spread further afield over time, including to other parts of the United Kingdom and even to countries such as the United States, where it is also relatively prevalent.

Notable Individuals: While not as commonly recognised as some other surnames, there have been notable individuals bearing the surname Ratliff throughout history. These include figures such as:

  • David Ratliff: A British industrialist and philanthropist in the 19th century, known for his contributions to the development of the textile industry in Lancashire.
  • Emily Ratliff: A prominent British artist known for her innovative use of mixed media in contemporary art.
  • Sir Henry Ratliff: A distinguished military leader who played a key role in several significant battles during the Middle Ages.

Coat of Arms: The Ratliff family crest features a shield with symbols such as a wolf's head and oak leaves, reflecting the name's origins and the values associated with the lineage.

Overall, the surname Ratliff holds a place in British history as a distinctive and historically rich surname with connections to various regions and noteworthy individuals.

There are approximately 110 people named Ratliff in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Ratliff.

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

  • David
  • Jim
  • Jonathan
  • Mathew
  • Timothy

Female

  • Colette
  • Louise
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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