WORTH
Worth
Definition and Origin
Worth is an English surname stemming from the Old English word "worp" or "worth," meaning "an enclosure" or "a homestead." The surname is of toponymic origin, denoting a person who lived by or worked at an enclosure or settlement.
Historical Significance
The Worth surname has a long history in England, dating back to the medieval period. It is found predominantly in the southern regions, particularly in the counties of Devon, Hampshire, and Sussex. The name could indicate the ancestral home's location, occupational ties, or even social status.
Distribution and Variations
Over time, variations of the Worth surname have emerged, such as Wirth, Woorthe, and Wortham. The surname has spread beyond the British Isles, with notable populations residing in the United States, Canada, and Australia, owing to historical migrations and the British Empire's expansion.
Famous Bearers
Several individuals with the surname Worth have achieved recognition in various fields. Worth is known as a designer of haute couture in 19th-century Paris, defining the aesthetics of the era. Shirley Worth was a prominent British actress, while David Worth gained acclaim as a film director. These individuals have brought the Worth surname to prominence in their respective fields.
Conclusion
The Worth surname encapsulates the rich history and cultural heritage of England, reflecting the evolution of language and society over the centuries. Through notable bearers and widespread distribution, the Worth name continues to endure as a symbol of ancestry, identity, and connection to the past.
There are approximately 5,252 people named Worth in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,803rd most common surname in Britain. Around 81 in a million people in Britain are named Worth.
Surname type: Location or geographical feature
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
- Brian
- Christopher
- David
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
- Robert
- Stephen
Female
- Catherine
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Helen
- Karen
- Kathleen
- Linda
- Margaret
- Nicola
- Rebecca
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.