In this episode of our English language podcast we’re dealing with the history and origins of names in English-speaking cultures.

We look at sources that discuss how names developed from simple mononyms, such as those used in pre-Norman England, to the more complex systems of given names, middle names, and surnames that we use today.

The sources explain the various types of surnames, such as patronymics, locatives, occupational, and descriptive names, and provide examples of how these types of names were formed and how they have evolved over time.

They also discuss the changing practice of women adopting their husband's surname upon marriage and the unique patronymic system that persists in Iceland.

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English surnames have evolved over time from simple identifiers to complex and diverse names that reflect a variety of factors, such as family history, location, and occupation.

● Before the Norman Conquest of 1066, people in England did not have hereditary surnames. As the population grew, it became necessary to distinguish between people with the same name, so they began using additional identifiers such as "John the butcher" or "Henry from Sutton".

● The Norman Conquest of 1066 led to the introduction of surnames into England. Norman barons brought the practice with them, and it gradually spread throughout the country. By 1400, most English families, as well as those from Lowland Scotland, had adopted hereditary surnames.

● Surnames in England generally developed from four major sources:

○ Patronymic and Matronymic Surnames: These surnames are derived from baptismal or Christian names to indicate family relationship or descent. For example, "Williamson" (son of William) or "Madison" (son/daughter of Maud).

○ Occupational Surnames: These surnames developed from a person's job or position in society. For example, "Smith", "Wright", and "Taylor".

○ Descriptive Surnames: These surnames were based on a unique quality or physical characteristic of the individual, such as size, colour, complexion, or physical shape. For example, "Little", "White", or "Armstrong".

○ Geographical or Local Surnames: These surnames derived from the location of the homestead from which the first bearer and his family lived. They were first introduced into England by the Normans, many of whom were known by the name of their personal estate. For example, someone from the town of "Lancaster" might take on the surname "Lancaster." These are generally the most common origin of English surnames.

● Surnames continued to be formed after 1400, and immigrants brought in new ones. Many Irish and Highland Scottish names derive from Gaelic personal names, as do those of the Welsh, who only began to adopt the English system of surnames following the union of the two countries in 1536.

● It's important to note that surnames are not always reliable indicators of family history. Individuals and families changed their names or adopted aliases for various reasons, which can complicate genealogical research. For example, someone might have taken on the surname of their adoptive or foster parents.

● The spelling of surnames was also not standardised until the 19th century, so variations in spelling are common, especially in the distant past.

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