TAN

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Tan

Overview Tan is a surname of English and Scottish origin. It is derived from the Old English word Tann, which means "a dweller near the wild rose bushes." The surname is found predominantly in the United Kingdom, as well as in countries influenced by British colonial history.

Distribution The surname Tan is most commonly found in Scotland, particularly in the regions of Edinburgh and Glasgow. It is also prevalent in areas with historically significant Scottish immigrant populations, such as Canada, Australia, and the United States.

Notable Bearers

Tommy Tan (1910–1985) – British politician and advocate for workers' rights.
Grace Tan (b. 1975) – Renowned Scottish painter known for her landscapes inspired by the Scottish Highlands.
Dr. Jonathan Tan (b. 1968) – Leading British physician specialising in cardiovascular medicine.

Legacy The surname Tan has left a notable legacy in British history, with individuals bearing this name making significant contributions to various fields, including politics, arts, and medicine.

There are approximately 4,893 people named Tan in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,929th most common surname in Britain. Around 75 in a million people in Britain are named Tan.

Region of origin: Asia

Country of origin: China

Language of origin: Chinese

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

Andrew
Boon
Chin
Choon
David
Hong
John
Jonathan
Kian
Kok
Lee
Michael
Wei

Female

Bee
Elaine
Hui
Kim
Li
Mary
Mei
Michelle
Pei
Sharon
Siew
Susan
Yi

Similar and related surnames

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