Tyrrell

Tyrrell is an ancient British surname with a rich history that can be traced back to the early medieval period. The surname derives from the Old French word "tirel", meaning a puller, tugger or someone who draws out an arrow from a target. It is thought that the surname originated from a Norman knight who was skilled in archery or had a role in tending to the royal hunting bows.

The first recorded instance of the surname Tyrrell dates back to the Domesday Book of 1086, a comprehensive survey of England and parts of Wales undertaken by order of William the Conqueror. The book lists a Walter Tirel as a landowner in Essex, signifying the early presence of the surname in England.

The Tyrrell family rose to prominence during the Middle Ages, with Sir Walter Tyrrell becoming a notable figure in the court of King William II (William Rufus). Sir Walter Tyrrell was famously linked to the mysterious hunting incident in the New Forest, Hampshire, which resulted in the death of King William II.

Over the centuries, the Tyrrell surname has spread throughout the British Isles and beyond, with notable branches of the family establishing themselves in various regions. The name has seen different variations in spelling, including Tirel, Tirell, and Terrell.

Today, individuals bearing the Tyrrell surname can be found in various countries, with a significant population still residing in the United Kingdom. The name continues to evoke a sense of historical significance and aristocracy, reflecting the enduring legacy of the Tyrrell family in British history.

There are approximately 39 people named Tyrrel in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Tyrrel.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

Female

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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