WHARRAM
Wharram
Origin and Meaning
Wharram is a surname of English origin, believed to derive from the Old English word "wær", meaning a weir or dam on a river, and "ham", denoting a homestead or enclosure. This suggests that the name was likely to have been used to describe someone who lived near such a feature, or possibly worked in its construction or maintenance.
Historical Significance
The surname Wharram has been recorded in various forms throughout history, with instances of Wharrams being noted in Yorkshire and other parts of Northern England. It is thought that the name may have originated in the Yorkshire region, where the Wharram Percy deserted medieval village is located.
Notable Individuals
Notable individuals bearing the surname Wharram include Thomas Wharram, a prominent figure in Yorkshire in the 17th century, and Sarah Wharram, a suffragette activist known for her contributions to the women's rights movement in the early 20th century.
Modern Distribution and Variants
Today, the surname Wharram is relatively uncommon, with the majority of individuals bearing this name residing in the United Kingdom, particularly in regions with historical connections to Yorkshire. Variants of the surname may include Wharam, Worram, and Warham, reflecting the phonetic changes that have occurred over time.
Legacy
The surname Wharram, with its origins rooted in the landscape and history of England, continues to be a distinct marker of identity for those who bear it. Through its connections to geographical features and local communities, the name Wharram serves as a reminder of the rich tapestry of British heritage and ancestry.
There are approximately 178 people named Wharram in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around three in a million people in Britain are named Wharram.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Anthony
- David
- John
- Kevin
- Mark
- Paul
- Raymond
- Richard
- Scott
- Thomas
Female
- Caroline
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Janice
- Jean
- Joan
- Kathleen
- Nicola
- Ruth
- Tina
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.