RUFFELL
Ruffell
Ruffell is a British surname of English origin. The name is a variation of the old English name Roughan, which means "rough one" or "tough one."
Origin
The surname Ruffell is believed to have originated in the county of Sussex in southeast England. It is derived from the Middle English word roufe, meaning red or ruddy, and the suffix -ell, which could indicate descent or association.
Distribution
The Ruffell surname is relatively rare but can be found in various parts of the United Kingdom and former British colonies. Many bearers of this surname can still be found in Sussex and neighbouring counties where the name likely originated.
Notable People
- William Ruffell: A prominent figure in local Sussex history during the medieval period.
- Sarah Ruffell: An acclaimed author known for her works on English folklore.
- John Ruffell: Noted as a successful entrepreneur in the early 20th century.
Legacy
The Ruffell surname has a rich heritage associated with the history of Sussex and the English countryside. The name continues to be carried by descendants of the original bearers, preserving a connection to their ancestral roots.
References
- The Surnames of Sussex by Mark Antony Lower.
- Dictionary of English Surnames by P.H. Reaney.
There are approximately 1,337 people named Ruffell in the UK. That makes it roughly the 5,877th most common surname in Britain. Around 21 in a million people in Britain are named Ruffell.
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
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Martin
- Matthew
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
- Stephen
Female
- Angela
- Ann
- Carol
- Deborah
- Elizabeth
- Jacqueline
- Jane
- Jean
- Lilian
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Mary
- Sarah
- Susan