SHERWOOD
Sherwood
Sherwood is a prominent British surname with deep historical roots. Derived from Old English, the name likely originates from a locational reference to someone who lived in or near a "bright wood" or a "forest of the shire". The Sherwood name is associated with several notable individuals throughout British history.
Origins and History
The earliest recorded instances of the Sherwood surname date back to medieval England, particularly in the counties of Nottinghamshire and Yorkshire. Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire, famously associated with the legendary figure Robin Hood, has further popularised the surname. The name likely spread to other parts of the country as people migrated for work or trade.
Notable Individuals
- Robin Sherwood - Fictitious member of the Merry Men in English folklore.
- Alicia Sherwood - Renowned botanist known for her work on plant species native to the British Isles.
- Michael Sherwood - Esteemed British banker who played a significant role in the financial sector.
Distribution and Popularity
The surname Sherwood remains moderately common in England, particularly in the northern regions. Variations such as "Sherwoode" or "Shirwood" also exist but are less frequent. The name has spread not only in the UK but also in former British colonies where English settlers carried the surname.
Coat of Arms
The Sherwood family crest typically features symbols associated with nature, such as trees and leaves, reflecting the name's connection to wooded areas. The shield may also incorporate hues like green and brown to represent the forest landscape.
In conclusion, the surname Sherwood is a noteworthy piece of British heritage, intertwined with both folklore and history. Its enduring presence in various regions and its links to nature make it a fascinating name that continues to intrigue genealogists and historians alike.
There are approximately 8,899 people named Sherwood in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,066th most common surname in Britain. Around 137 in a million people in Britain are named Sherwood.
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
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
- Robert
Female
- Claire
- Deborah
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Jacqueline
- Jane
- Janet
- Julie
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- Sarah
- Susan