RELF
Relf
Origin and Meaning: Relf is a British surname of Old English origin. Derived from the medieval given name "Ralph", which means "counsel-wolf" or "wise-wolf". The surname Relf is patronymic in nature, indicating that it was originally used to identify the son of someone named Ralph.
Historical Significance: The Relf surname has ancient roots in England, with records dating back to the 13th century. The name has been found in various regions across the country, indicating that multiple family lines bearing the surname have existed over the centuries.
Distribution and Variants: The Relf surname is relatively uncommon, with most individuals bearing this name concentrated in the southern counties of England. Variants of the name include Relfe, Relfs, and Reif.
Notable Individuals:
- John Relf (1808-1868): An English cricketer who played for Surrey in the mid-19th century.
- Lynne Relf (b. 1947): A British Olympic swimming champion who won gold medals in the 4x100m freestyle relay and medley relay at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics.
Modern Day: Today, individuals with the surname Relf can be found across the United Kingdom and in other parts of the world where British descendants have settled. The name continues to be passed down through generations, connecting contemporary bearers to their historical roots.
Overall, the surname Relf carries a legacy of English ancestry and familial heritage, reflecting the enduring ties of those who bear it to the cultural tapestry of Britain.
There are approximately 1,682 people named Relf in the UK. That makes it roughly the 4,877th most common surname in Britain. Around 26 in a million people in Britain are named Relf.
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
- David
- Ian
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Stephen
Female
- Angela
- Ann
- Catherine
- Christine
- Claire
- Emma
- Helen
- Linda
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- Sarah
- Susan