REED
Reed
Origin and Meaning: Reed is a surname of English origin derived from the Old English word "hreod," which means a reed or a plant that grows by the water. As a surname, Reed likely originated as an occupational name for someone who lived or worked near a reed-covered marsh or watercourse.
Distribution and Popularity: The surname Reed is a common surname in the United Kingdom, particularly in England. It is also found in other English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia. The name has been present throughout history and is borne by individuals from various walks of life.
Famous Bearers of the Name:
- Lou Reed: An influential American musician, singer, and songwriter known for his work as the leader of the band Velvet Underground.
- Donna Reed: An American film and television actress who won an Academy Award for her role in the film "From Here to Eternity."
- Oliver Reed: A renowned English actor known for his roles in films such as "Gladiator" and "Oliver!"
Coat of Arms: The Reed family crest typically features symbols associated with marshlands and water, reflecting the surname's origins. These may include reeds, water, or other natural elements.
Genealogy and Family History: The Reed surname has a rich genealogical history, with many families tracing their roots back through generations. Genealogical records can provide insights into family migrations, occupations, and relationships over time.
Modern Influence: In modern times, the surname Reed continues to be popular as a last name for many individuals and families. It is often used as a link to ancestral heritage and can be found across various professions, from business to the arts.
References:
- Hanks, P., Coates, R., & McClure, P. (2016). The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland. Oxford University Press.
- Reaney, P. H., & Wilson, R. M. (1997). A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford University Press.
In Summary: The surname Reed, with its roots in ancient England, has a rich history and continues to be a prominent surname today. Known for its connection to marshlands and water, it is carried by individuals around the world, contributing to the diverse tapestry of family names.
There are approximately 39,432 people named Reed in the UK. That makes it the 189th most common surname in Britain. Around 606 in a million people in Britain are named Reed.
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
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Robert
- Stephen
Female
- Alison
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Helen
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- Patricia
- Rebecca
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
- Read
- Reid
- Reade
- Reader
- Red
- Reda
- Rad
- Rade
- Raid
- Reado
- Raad
- Radd
- Ready
- Radde
- Raed
- Reads
- Redae
- Redda
- Rede
- Ree
- Reede
- Reddi
- Reder
- Redi
- Redie
- Redo
- Redw
- Redy
- Reead
- Reeday
- Reeder
- Reedes
- Reedie
- Reeds
- Reedus
- Reedy
- Reeid
- Reide
- Reids
- Rhead
- Rheade
- Rheid
- Riede
- Riedi
- Riedo
- Wrede
- Raade
- Reades
- Readie
- Redah
- Reday
- Reddie
- Reddy
- Redei
- Redew
- Redey
- Redl
- Reidie
- Reidy
- Riedy
- Radia
- Rait
- Raitt
- Rate
- Rattu
- Ride
- Rodd
- Root
- Rout
- Rudd
- Rutt
- Ryde
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.