Thain

Thain is a surname of Scottish origin that is also found in other parts of the United Kingdom. The name is derived from the Old English word "þegn", which means "servant" or "retainer".

The earliest documentation of the surname Thain dates back to the medieval period in Scotland. It is believed to have been used as an occupational name to denote someone who held a position of authority or a title of honour in a noble household.

Over time, the surname Thain has spread beyond Scotland and can now be found in various regions of the United Kingdom. Individuals with the surname Thain have made notable contributions in various fields, including academia, the arts, business, and government.

Notable bearers of the surname Thain include John Thain, a prominent American businessman with Scottish ancestry, known for his role in the financial industry.

The surname Thain continues to be passed down through generations, connecting individuals to their ancestral roots and family history. It remains a distinctive and recognisable name in British society, embodying a sense of heritage and tradition.

There are approximately 2,720 people named Thain in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,283rd most common surname in Britain. Around 42 in a million people in Britain are named Thain.

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Scotland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alan
  • Alexander
  • Andrew
  • Christopher
  • David
  • Ian
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Robert
  • William

Female

  • Alison
  • Angela
  • Catherine
  • Claire
  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Julie
  • Laura
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • 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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