SAXON
Surname: Saxon
Origin and Meaning: The surname Saxon is of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English word "Seaxe," which referred to a person from Saxon, an ancient region in Germany. The Anglo-Saxons were a Germanic tribal group that settled in Britain in the 5th and 6th centuries, influencing the culture and language of the region.
Historical Significance: The Anglo-Saxons were a dominant group in early medieval England and played a significant role in shaping the country's heritage. The surname Saxon likely originated as a descriptive or occupational name to distinguish individuals with ties to the Saxon people or regions.
Distribution and Variations: The surname Saxon is relatively uncommon in modern-day Britain, with few individuals bearing this name. Variations of the surname may include Saxton or Sexton, reflecting different regional dialects and spelling conventions over the centuries.
Notable Bearers:
- Alfred the Great: King of Wessex in the late 9th century, known for his resistance against Viking invasions and promotion of learning and culture.
- Harold Godwinson: Last Anglo-Saxon King of England, famously defeated by William the Conqueror at the Battle of Hastings in 1066.
- Thomas Saxon: Fictional character in British literature, representing the quintessential English gentleman with a sense of honour and duty.
Modern Usage: While the surname Saxon may not be as common as others, individuals who bear this name often take pride in their Anglo-Saxon heritage and historical significance. Some families may choose to use variants of the surname, such as Saxton, for easier recognition and pronunciation.
In conclusion, the surname Saxon embodies a connection to the rich history of the Anglo-Saxon people and their lasting impact on British culture and identity.
There are approximately 2,099 people named Saxon in the UK. That makes it roughly the 4,044th most common surname in Britain. Around 32 in a million people in Britain are named Saxon.
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
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Martin
- Michael
- Neil
- Paul
- Peter
- Robert
Female
- Amanda
- Clare
- Dawn
- Elizabeth
- Judith
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Mary
- Michelle
- Patricia
- Sharon
- Sheila
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.