RUE

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Rue

Rue is a British surname with a rich history that can be traced back to medieval times. The origins of the surname can be found in the Old English word "hrēow," which means sorrow or pity. This suggests that the surname Rue may have originally been a nickname for someone who was sorrowful or pitiful, or it could have been a topographical name for someone who lived by a rue (herb) patch.

The surname Rue is not one of the most common surnames in Britain, but it has spread throughout the country and can be found in various regions. Like many surnames, Rue has likely evolved over time, leading to different variations such as Roo, Rew, and Rewe.

Another possible origin of the Rue surname is from the French word for street, "rue." It is possible that some bearers of the surname Rue may have had French ancestry or lived on a street named Rue.

Famous individuals bearing the surname Rue include British actress Sara Rue, known for her roles in television shows and movies.

Overall, the surname Rue is a part of the diverse tapestry of British surnames, with a story that reflects the linguistic and historical influences that have shaped the British Isles over the centuries.

There are approximately 185 people named Rue in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around three in a million people in Britain are named Rue.

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

Alain
Alan
Christopher
Clive
David
Edmond
John
Justin
Martin
Peter
Stephen
Steven
Terence
Thomas

Female

Carol
Emily
Emma
Jane
Jodie
Judith
Julie
Margaret
Marie
Rebecca
Sarah
Sharon
Valerie

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.