RICH
Rich
The surname Rich finds its origins in England, with its meaning derived from the Old English word "riec", which translates to "power" or "rule". The surname Rich is classified as a nickname surname, often bestowed on individuals to denote their wealth or social standing in society. The name could also have been used to describe someone generous or given to acts of charity.
The earliest recordings of the surname Rich date back to the 11th century in England. During the medieval period, the Rich family name was well-documented in various regions across the country, particularly in Buckinghamshire and Essex. Members of the Rich family were noted for their contributions to society, including engagements in local governance, military endeavours, and the arts.
One of the most prominent figures associated with the surname Rich is the English nobleman Richard Rich, 1st Baron Rich (1496–1567). Baron Rich served as Lord Chancellor of England during the reign of King Edward VI, and later played a role in the English Reformation. The name Rich also appears in literature and popular culture, further solidifying its presence in British history.
Over time, the surname Rich has evolved and diversified, with variations such as Ritch, Riche, and Riches emerging. Today, individuals bearing the surname Rich can be found across the United Kingdom and around the world, reflecting the enduring legacy of this distinguished English surname.
There are approximately 7,300 people named Rich in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,280th most common surname in Britain. Around 112 in a million people in Britain are named Rich.
Surname type: From given name or forename
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
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Stephen
- William
Female
- Alison
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Helen
- Jane
- Karen
- Linda
- Margaret
- Michelle
- Nicola
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
- Riches
- Riche
- Richa
- Richau
- Riach
- Richen
- Richar
- Richan
- Richer
- Richel
- Richd
- Riched
- Ric
- Rica
- Richi
- Richo
- Richey
- Richez
- Richie
- Richis
- Richl
- Richs
- Richt
- Richy
- Rioch
- Ritch
- Ritche
- Ritches
- Ritchi
- Ritchie
- Wrich
- Richal
- Richam
- Richet
- Richeux
- Richies
- Richin
- Richly
- Richol
- Richon
- Richoux
- Richu
- Rioche
- Ritched
- Ritchey
- Ritchies
- Ritchis
- Roich
- Rash
- Reich
- Rocha
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.