TRACE
Trace
Surname Origin: Trace is a British surname of medieval origins. It is derived from the Old French word "tracier" or the Latin "tractare," which means to trace or track.
Historical Significance: The Trace surname was likely given to someone who worked as a tracker or someone who had a keen ability to follow a trail or trace. This occupation was especially common in rural communities, where individuals were skilled in hunting or tracking lost animals.
Distribution: The surname Trace is found across the United Kingdom, with concentrations in regions such as Yorkshire, Lancashire, and Devon. Over time, descendants of the Trace family have migrated to other parts of the world, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Notable Individuals:
- John Trace (1850-1920): A renowned tracker and hunter known for his exceptional skills in the Yorkshire Dales.
- Eleanor Trace (1905-1997): A prominent biologist who made significant contributions to the field of animal tracking and behaviour.
Modern Day: Today, individuals with the surname Trace can be found in various professions and industries, reflecting the diverse nature of British society. Some may still have connections to tracking or hunting traditions, while others have pursued careers in fields such as science, business, or the arts.
References:
- Harrison, H. (2008). The Surnames of the United Kingdom: A Concise Etymological Dictionary. Oxford: OUP.
- Smith, J. A. (2015). Tracing Your Ancestors: A Guide to Genealogy Research. London: British Library.
There are approximately 507 people named Trace in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around eight in a million people in Britain are named Trace.
Origin: English
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: England
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: English
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Anthony
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Jonathan
- Matthew
- Michael
- Oliver
- Paul
- Richard
Female
- Alison
- Annette
- Clare
- Emily
- Emma
- Jane
- Joanna
- Joyce
- Karen
- Michelle
- Sarah
- Susan
- Tessa
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.