Russell

Origin of the Name: Russell is a surname of Old French origin, derived from the Old French name rous meaning red, and the Old French word houx meaning hill. The name likely originated as a nickname for someone with red hair or who lived near a hill covered with red foliage.

History: The surname Russell has a long history in England, with records dating back to the medieval period. The name was first brought to England by the Normans after the Norman Conquest of 1066. The Russell family has been prominent in British history, with several members holding powerful positions in the government and in society.

Notable Individuals:

  • Bertrand Russell (1872-1970): A British philosopher, logician, mathematician, historian, writer, social critic, political activist, and Nobel laureate.
  • John Russell, 1st Earl Russell (1792-1878): A leading Whig and Liberal politician who served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom on two separate occasions.
  • Ken Russell (1927-2011): A British film director known for his controversial and avant-garde films.

Variants: Variants of the surname Russell include Russel, Russelle, Rousel, and Rousell.

Coat of Arms: The Russell family coat of arms is described as a shield with gold and blue stripes, featuring a red lion rampant. The crest includes a demi-lion grasping an arrow.

Modern Day: The surname Russell remains a common surname in the United Kingdom and has spread to other English-speaking countries around the world. Many individuals with the surname Russell continue to make significant contributions in various fields, from politics and academia to the arts and business.

There are approximately 72,803 people named Russell in the UK. That makes it the 86th most common surname in Britain. Around 1,118 in a million people in Britain are named Russell.

Surname type: Nickname

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
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Robert
  • Stephen
  • William

Female

  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Helen
  • Julie
  • Karen
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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