Straw

The surname "Straw" is of English origin and is classified as a topographical surname. It is derived from the Old English word "streaw," meaning straw, and was originally used to denote someone who lived by a straw-covered house or in an area where straw was plentiful.

The use of topographical surnames became common in England during the medieval period, as a way to identify individuals based on their place of origin or residence. The surname "Straw" likely originated in rural areas where straw was a significant agricultural product.

Notable individuals bearing the surname "Straw" include Jack Straw, a prominent British politician who served as the Member of Parliament for Blackburn and held various ministerial positions in the British government. Additionally, the surname has been widely recorded across different parts of England, indicating its spread and use among various families.

The surname "Straw" continues to be found in modern times, with descendants of the original bearers residing in different parts of the United Kingdom and beyond. As with many surnames of English origin, variations in spelling and pronunciation may exist due to regional accents and dialects.

In conclusion, the surname "Straw" holds a place in British history as a topographical surname that reflects the agricultural landscape of medieval England. It remains a distinctive and unique identifier for those who can trace their ancestry to its origins.

There are approximately 2,781 people named Straw in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,218th most common surname in Britain. Around 43 in a million people in Britain are named Straw.

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
  • Craig
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Kenneth
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Robert

Female

  • Christine
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Jane
  • Janet
  • Julie
  • Karen
  • Lisa
  • Margaret
  • Patricia
  • Rachel
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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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