ROLL
Roll
Origin and Meaning: The British surname Roll originates from the Anglo-Saxon word roll, which means “fame” or “renown”. It is a toponymic surname, derived from various locations such as Rolle in Devon and Rolleston in Nottinghamshire.
Historical Records: The surname Roll has been recorded in historical documents dating back to the 13th century in England. Early bearers of the name were typically landowners or local officials who held prominent positions in their communities.
Distribution and Variants: The surname Roll is found predominantly in England, particularly in regions such as Devon, Nottinghamshire, and Yorkshire. Variants of the name include Rolle, Roly, and Rowell.
Notable Bearers:
- John Roll (1802–1882): An English inventor known for his contributions to the development of agricultural machinery.
- Mary Roll (1925–2010): A British actress who appeared in several popular television series in the mid-20th century.
- Thomas de Rolle (1347–1415): A prominent nobleman and military commander during the Hundred Years’ War.
Modern Usage: The surname Roll continues to be used in modern times, with individuals bearing the name found across the United Kingdom and in other English-speaking countries. It often symbolises a lineage rich in history and tradition.
In conclusion, the surname Roll is an integral part of British heritage, with a legacy that spans centuries and reflects the diverse cultural tapestry of the country.
There are approximately 581 people named Roll in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around nine in a million people in Britain are named Roll.
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
- Alan
- Anthony
- Christopher
- David
- Donald
- John
- Kevin
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
- Stephen
Female
- Barbara
- Betty
- Elizabeth
- Gillian
- Janet
- Jean
- Kathleen
- Lyn
- Margaret
- Patricia
- Ruth
- Sandra
- Susan
- Sylvia
- Vanessa
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.