SHAKESPEARE

Shakespeare

The surname Shakespeare is of English origin and is derived from the Middle English term "scha(a)ken", which means 'to brandish a weapon'. The name is believed to have originally been an occupational surname, indicating that the bearer was a professional soldier or a person skilled in the use of weapons, such as a swordsman.

One of the most famous bearers of the surname Shakespeare is William Shakespeare (1564-1616), the renowned English playwright and poet widely regarded as one of the greatest writers in the English language. William Shakespeare's works, including plays such as "Romeo and Juliet", "Hamlet", and "Macbeth", have had a profound impact on literature and have been studied and performed around the world for centuries.

The surname Shakespeare has been recorded in various spellings over the centuries, including Shakeshaft, Shaxper, Shakspeare, and Shakspere, among others. The name is most commonly found in the counties of Warwickshire, where William Shakespeare was born and raised, as well as in London and other parts of England.

Today, the surname Shakespeare continues to be borne by individuals around the world, many of whom may be descendants of the famous playwright or may simply share the same surname. The enduring legacy of William Shakespeare ensures that the surname Shakespeare remains widely recognised and celebrated in the realms of literature, art, and culture.

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
• Richard
• Robert
• William

Female

• Alison
• Claire
• Emma
• Jane
• Joanne
• Karen
• Lisa
• Margaret
• Marie
• Mary
• Patricia
• Sarah
• Susan

Similar and related surnames

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