SHAKSPEARE
Shakspeare
Shakspeare is a British surname with a long and storied history, most famously associated with the renowned English playwright and poet, William Shakespeare. The precise origins of the surname are unclear, but it is believed to have derived from the Old English word "sceacan," meaning "to brandish or wield," and "spere," meaning "spear." This suggests a possible occupational origin related to a spearman or soldier.
The most well-known bearer of the surname is William Shakespeare (1564-1616), widely regarded as one of the greatest writers in the English language and the world's pre-eminent dramatist. His works, including plays such as Hamlet, Romeo and Juliet, and Macbeth, have had a profound influence on literature and theatre.
The spelling of the surname has undergone various changes over the centuries, from "Shakespere" to the modern standard "Shakespeare." It is a surname rich in cultural significance and literary associations, embodying excellence in the arts and humanities.
Today, the surname Shakspeare is relatively rare, with only a small number of individuals bearing this distinguished name. Despite its infrequency, the legacy of the Shakespeare name continues to resonate across the globe, symbolising creativity, intellect, and enduring literary achievement.
There are approximately 41 people named Shakspeare in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Shakspeare.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Paul
Female
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.