ROSS
Ross
Ross is a common surname of Scottish origin, derived from the Old Gaelic word "ros" meaning "promontory" or "headland". The name originates from a historical place in Scotland, known as Ross-shire. The surname is one of the oldest recorded surnames in Scotland and has spread to various parts of the world.
Origins and History
The Ross clan originated from the region of Ross-shire in the Scottish Highlands. They were known for their allegiance to the Scottish crown and played significant roles in various historical events. The clan's stronghold was located at Balnagowan Castle in the county of Ross. Over time, members of the Ross clan migrated to other parts of Scotland and beyond, leading to the widespread adoption of the surname.
Distribution and Popularity
The surname Ross is widespread across the United Kingdom, especially in Scotland. It is also common in countries with historical ties to Scotland, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The popularity of the surname can be attributed to the migration of Scottish immigrants to these regions.
Notable People
- Diana Ross: An American singer and actress, known for her contributions to the Motown genre of music.
- Alexander Ross: A Scottish poet and author known for his historical writings.
- Bob Ross: An American painter and television host, best known for his show "The Joy of Painting".
Variations
Variations of the surname Ross include Ros, Rosse, and Roose. These variations may have stemmed from different transliterations or regional accents over time.
Coat of Arms
The Ross family crest typically features a depiction of a galley with oars, symbolizing ancient seafaring heritage and a lion rampant, which signifies courage and strength.
The surname Ross carries a rich history and connections to Scottish heritage, making it a prominent name both in Scotland and in the Scottish diaspora around the world.
There are approximately 58,540 people named Ross in the UK. That makes it the 112th most common surname in Britain. Around 899 in a million people in Britain are named Ross.
Surname type: From given name or forename
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Scotland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alan
- Alexander
- Andrew
- David
- Ian
- James
- John
- Michael
- Robert
- William
Female
- Alison
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Fiona
- Helen
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
- Rosse
- Rose
- Roose
- Roo
- Rosa
- Roces
- Rosas
- Rosca
- Rosch
- Rosco
- Rohss
- Rohse
- Roase
- Rosai
- Roce
- Ros
- Rossa
- Rossi
- Rosso
- Rosea
- Rosee
- Rosh
- Rosi
- Rosie
- Rosk
- Roso
- Rosseau
- Rosses
- Rossey
- Rossie
- Rossis
- Rossos
- Rossow
- Rossy
- Rosu
- Rosy
- Rosz
- Rous
- Rouse
- Rowes
- Rowse
- Roash
- Roseau
- Rosey
- Roshe
- Roshes
- Rosies
- Roske
- Rossaye
- Rossl
- Rost
- Rozs
- Rozze
- Race
- Raza
- Reis
- Roos
- Royce
- Ruiz
- Ruse
- Russ
- Russo
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.