Windham

Windham is an English surname of Anglo-Saxon origin. The name is derived from several place names in England such as Windham in Norfolk and Wyndham in Somerset.

Etymology

The etymology of the surname Windham can be traced back to the Old English words "wind" meaning "wind" or "stream" and "ham" meaning "home" or "homestead". Therefore, the name likely originally referred to someone who lived near a winding river or stream.

History

The surname Windham has a long history in England, dating back to medieval times. The name has been recorded in various forms over the centuries, including Wynham, Windeham, and Windem among others.

The Windham family has been associated with the county of Norfolk, with prominent individuals such as William Windham (1717-1761), a noted landowner and politician. The name has also been linked to the town of Thetford in Norfolk, where the Windham family owned estates.

Notable Individuals

William Windham (1717-1761) - A British landowner and politician who served as a Member of Parliament for various constituencies. Felbrigg Hall - A National Trust property in Norfolk associated with the Windham family.

Legacy

The surname Windham continues to be borne by individuals around the world, particularly in English-speaking countries. The name carries with it a sense of heritage and history, reflecting the longstanding presence of the Windham family in England.

In conclusion, the British surname Windham is a testament to the rich tapestry of English surnames and the enduring legacy of families throughout history.

There are approximately 174 people named Windham in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around three in a million people in Britain are named Windham.

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
  • Ashe
  • Barry
  • Brian
  • Conrad
  • Geoffrey
  • Jack
  • John
  • Lee
  • Mark
  • Paul
  • Rory
  • William

Female

  • Alexa
  • Angela
  • Emily
  • Emma
  • Joan
  • Katharine
  • Katherine
  • Lydia
  • Margaret
  • Rachel
  • Sally
  • Sharon
  • Susan
  • Tina

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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