TOUGH
Tough
Tough is a surname of Scottish origin that has been borne by families primarily in the United Kingdom. The etymology of the surname can be traced back to the Old Norse word tófi, meaning "Thor" or "God". The name Tough may have been bestowed upon individuals as a nickname denoting strength or resilience, characteristics often associated with the aforementioned deity.
The Tough surname is concentrated mainly in Scotland, particularly in the Aberdeenshire region where the name has historical ties. The rugged landscapes and harsh climate of this area may have influenced the choice of this name among its inhabitants. Over time, individuals bearing the Tough surname have spread to other parts of the United Kingdom and beyond.
The history of the Tough family has been documented in various records, including census data, parish registers, and other genealogical sources. Like many surnames, Tough may have undergone variations in spelling over the centuries, such as Tuff or Tougher. Despite these variations, the name has maintained its distinct identity.
Today, individuals with the surname Tough can be found across the United Kingdom and in other parts of the world where migration has carried their ancestors. The perseverance and endurance symbolised by the name continue to be reflected in the lives of modern-day bearers of the Tough surname.
There are approximately 2,236 people named Tough in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,837th most common surname in Britain. Around 34 in a million people in Britain are named Tough.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- David
- Fraser
- Gordon
- Ian
- Innes
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Robert
- Simon
- Steve
- Tony
- William
Female
- Alison
- Angela
- Ashley
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Hilary
- Jean
- Linda
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- Sarah
- Susan