Smith [surname]

The surname Smith is one of the most common surnames in the United Kingdom and is of occupational origin. The name is derived from the Old English word 'smitan', meaning 'to strike' or 'to smite'. Originally, it referred to individuals who worked as smiths or metalworkers, particularly blacksmiths who forged metal objects using hammer and anvil.

The Smith surname is widely distributed throughout the United Kingdom, with concentrations in both rural and urban areas. This dispersal can be attributed to the prevalence of metalworking trades in various communities across the country.

Over time, the Smith surname has given rise to numerous variations and spellings, including Smyth, Smeeth, and Smithe, among others. This diversity reflects the historical development of the name and its adaptation to regional accents and dialects.

Famous bearers of the Smith surname include a wide range of individuals from different fields, such as John Smith, a 17th-century English settler and one-time leader of the Jamestown colony in Virginia, and Maggie Smith, a renowned British actress known for her work on stage and screen.

In modern times, the Smith surname continues to be widespread, reflecting its enduring popularity and historical significance within British society.

There are approximately 89 people named Smtih in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Smtih.

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
  • Anthony
  • Darren
  • David
  • John
  • Kevin
  • Martin
  • Matthew
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Richard
  • Stephen
  • Tony

Female

  • Alison
  • Anne
  • Caroline
  • Claire
  • Helen
  • Jane
  • Louise
  • Margaret
  • Maria
  • Mary
  • Rachel
  • Stephanie
  • Vanessa
  • Wendy

Similar and related surnames

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

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