Ruggles

Ruggles is a notable British surname with a history deeply rooted in the country’s heritage. Originally of Anglo-Saxon origin, the name Ruggles is derived from the Old English personal name “Hroc”, which means “crow” or “rook”, coupled with the suffix “-leah”, indicating a woodland clearing or meadow. Over time, the name evolved into various forms including Rug(le)s, Ruggals, and Ruggley.

The earliest recorded instance of the Ruggles surname in England dates back to the 13th century, specifically in the county of Norfolk. One of the most prominent historical figures bearing the name Ruggles was Thomas Ruggles, who migrated to America in the early 17th century and became one of the founding settlers of Sandwich, Massachusetts.

The Ruggles name has produced distinguished individuals across various fields, including politics, academia, and the arts. Noteworthy bearers of the surname include Edward Ruggles-Brise, an influential British army officer and politician, and Keith Ruggles, a renowned composer and music producer.

Today, individuals with the surname Ruggles can be found throughout the United Kingdom and the wider English-speaking world. The name continues to be a part of the rich tapestry of British surnames, embodying a legacy of resilience, creativity, and accomplishment.

There are approximately 515 people named Ruggles in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around eight in a million people in Britain are named Ruggles.

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
  • Brian
  • Bruce
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Stephen

Female

  • Angela
  • Elizabeth
  • Jane
  • Joan
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Maureen
  • Nicola
  • Pauline
  • Sarah
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

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

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