Surname: Suff

Origin and Meaning: The surname Suff is of English origin and is derived from the medieval personal name "Suff", itself derived from the Old English pre 7th Century "Saebeorht", meaning "glory-bright".

Distribution: The surname Suff is relatively rare, with most individuals bearing this surname found in the United Kingdom. The concentration of the Suff surname is highest in regions of England, particularly in East Anglia and the West Midlands.

Historical Significance: The Suff surname has a long history in England, with records dating back to the late Middle Ages. Individuals bearing this surname have been documented in various historical documents, such as parish registers, land deeds, and court records, indicating their presence in local communities and their involvement in agricultural and trade activities.

Notable Individuals:

  • Thomas Suff (1802–1867): A prominent Victorian architect known for his works in Gothic Revival style, including churches and public buildings.
  • Elizabeth Suff (1910–1997): An acclaimed botanist and environmentalist who made significant contributions to the study of British flora.
  • James Suff (b. 1985): A contemporary artist known for his innovative use of mixed media in his abstract paintings.

Variants: Variants of the Suff surname include Suffe, Soff, and Sough, reflecting historical variations in spelling and pronunciation over time.

Modern Influence: In contemporary times, the Suff surname continues to be passed down through generations, maintaining a connection to its historical roots and serving as a reminder of the family's heritage and ancestry. Family reunions, genealogical research, and reunification efforts contribute to the preservation and celebration of the Suff surname within the British Isles.

There are approximately 79 people named Suff in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Suff.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Brian
  • James
  • Paul

Female

Similar and related surnames

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

BritishSurnames.uk is a Good Stuff website.