Rickford

Rickford is a surname of English origin, believed to have Norman roots. The surname is derived from the Old English personal name 'Ricard', meaning 'powerful ruler', combined with the word 'ford', denoting a shallow part of a river that can be crossed by foot.

The Rickford surname is relatively uncommon in Britain, with most occurrences found in the southern regions of the country, particularly in areas such as Somerset, Wiltshire, and Essex. The name may have originated as a locational surname, referring to individuals who lived near or tended to a ford named after someone called Richard.

Throughout history, individuals bearing the surname Rickford have been noted in various records, including census data, parish registers, and land deeds. The name has likely evolved over time, with different spelling variations such as Richford and Ruckford appearing in historical documents.

Notable individuals with the surname Rickford include Sir Greg Rickford, a Canadian lawyer and politician, known for his contributions to public service.

In conclusion, the surname Rickford carries a legacy rooted in English history and language, reflecting the influence of Norman and Old English naming practices. Though less common than some surnames, Rickford continues to be a part of British genealogy and heritage.

There are approximately 122 people named Rickford in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Rickford.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Greg

Female

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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