Tillard

Origin and Meaning

Tillard is a British surname of French origins, deriving from the Old French word "tilleul" meaning lime tree. The name is believed to have been originally used as a topographic or occupational surname for someone living near a lime tree or involved in the cultivation of lime trees.

Distribution and Migration

The surname Tillard is relatively rare in the British Isles, with most occurrences found in southern England and the Midlands. It is believed to have been introduced to Britain following the Norman Conquest in 1066, when Norman surnames and customs were brought to the region.

Notable Individuals

  • Sir William Tillard (1746-1825): A British naval officer who served during the American Revolutionary War and the Napoleonic Wars. He rose to the rank of Admiral and was known for his strategic acumen and leadership skills.

  • Dr. Emily Tillard (1872-1956): A pioneering British physician and suffragette who played a significant role in promoting women's rights in the medical field. She was one of the first women to graduate from the University of Oxford Medical School.

Modern Day

In contemporary Britain, the surname Tillard remains relatively uncommon but is carried by individuals across various professions and regions. Some members of the Tillard family have continued to make notable contributions to society in fields such as business, academia, and the arts.

There are approximately 45 people named Tillard in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Tillard.

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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