Word

Overview

Word is a British surname that has origins in the Old English word "word", which means a declaration or command. The name likely started as a nickname for someone who was talkative or who had a commanding presence.

Origin

The surname Word has been traced back to medieval England, appearing in records as early as the 13th century. It is thought to have originated in various regions across Britain, with different families adopting the name independently.

Notable Individuals

  • Sir William Word (1565–1633) - A prominent Elizabethan statesman who served as an advisor to Queen Elizabeth I. Known for his eloquence and persuasive abilities in court.
  • Emily Word (1850–1918) - A suffragette and pioneer in the fight for women’s rights in Britain. She played a key role in securing the right to vote for women.
  • Dr. Jonathan Word (b. 1965) - A leading British linguist and etymologist, known for his research on the history and development of the English language.

Legacy

The Word surname continues to be borne by families across Britain and in various parts of the world where British descendants have settled. It serves as a reminder of the rich linguistic heritage and diverse origins of British surnames.

There are approximately 27 people named Word in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Fewer than one in a million people in Britain are named Word.

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

  • David
  • Trevor
  • Zia

Female

  • Lym
  • Sarah

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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