RIDGE
Ridge
Etymology: The surname Ridge has Anglo-Saxon origins, deriving from the Old English word "hrycg," meaning a ridge or a high point of land. It is likely that the surname was originally topographical, referring to a person who lived by a ridge or a hill.
Distribution: The surname Ridge is found throughout the United Kingdom, with the highest concentration in counties such as Surrey, Sussex, and Kent. It is also prevalent in areas where agricultural land features ridges or hills.
Historical Significance: The Ridge surname has a long history in Britain, with references dating back to the medieval period. The name was often used to identify individuals based on their physical proximity to a ridge, hill, or elevated area. Over time, the surname Ridge became associated with various families and communities across the country.
Notable Bearers: Several notable individuals have borne the surname Ridge, including:
- Tom Ridge: An American politician and the first Secretary of Homeland Security.
- Walter Ridge: A prominent British landscape artist known for his depictions of rural landscapes.
- Margaret Ridge: A pioneering female scientist in the field of botany, noted for her research on alpine flora.
Cultural References: The surname Ridge has featured in various literary works, serving as a symbol of strength, elevation, and resilience. It has been used metaphorically to represent overcoming obstacles and reaching new heights in life.
In conclusion, the British surname Ridge holds a significant place in the country's heritage, reflecting both the natural landscape and the diverse identities of the people who have carried this name through the generations.
There are approximately 3,744 people named Ridge in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,483rd most common surname in Britain. Around 57 in a million people in Britain are named Ridge.
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
- Anthony
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Stephen
- William
Female
- Anne
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Helen
- Jacqueline
- Janet
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Rebecca
- Sarah
- Sheila
- Susan