Surname Lancashire - Meaning and Origin
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Lancashire: What does the surname Lancashire mean?
The last name Lancashire originated from the county of Lancashire in North West England. The name is likely derived from the Old English term 'Loncastir' that translates to 'Castle on the River Lune', a reference to the geographical features of this region. The river Lune flows through Lancashire and a Roman fort, or 'castra', was established near its banks. Over time, Loncastir evolved to Lancashire. The name signifies the landscape and architecture that distinguished this area. People bearing this surname may have familial ties to this region, or their ancestors may have been residents or workforce associated with the Roman fort. Therefore, the surname Lancashire usually denotes lineage or occupational significance connecting back to this specific locality in England.
Order DNA origin analysisLancashire: Where does the name Lancashire come from?
The last name Lancashire is of Old English origin and geographical in nature. It is derived from Lancashire, a county in the Northwest of England. The county's name in turn originates from the city of Lancaster, meaning Roman fort on the River Lune, and the Old English term 'shir' signifying district or division. The name could have possibly been given to a person who hailed from Lancashire.
Today, the surname is fairly common in the United Kingdom, particularly in areas around Lancashire county itself. It is also found among British descendant populations around the world, including in countries like Australia, Canada, and the United States. However, the prevalence of Lancashire as a surname has decreased and it remains relatively rare compared to other British surnames.
Variations of the surname Lancashire
The surname Lancashire originates from the county in England named Lancashire. Variants and alternative spellings of the surname may include Lancashyre, Lancashire, Lancasher, Lankashire, Lankisher, Lankishire, Lanckashire, Lancashier, Lanckishire amongst others. It is likely that these variations have arisen due to phonetic spelling and regional accents. Old English, Middle English and Modern English evolutions also have an impact on the spellings. The name Lancashire could have been given to someone who came from Lancashire. However, it is worthy to note that surnames of places usually were taken by those who relocated, so it might not serve as a reliable marking of origin. It is also likely that the surname 'Lancashire' evolved as a patronymic, topographic, occupational, or nickname based on some unique characteristics or professions of the first person who carried that name. Although Lancashire as a last name is primarily observed within the United Kingdom, it has also been discovered within small pockets of the United States, Canada, and Australia due to migration and diaspora.
Famous people with the name Lancashire
- Andy Lancashire: English footballer for Stoke City F.C. and Burnley F.C.
- Alex Lancashire: English actor, best known for his roles in Coronation Street and Doctors
- Matthew Lancashire: English darts player, winner of the World Youth Masters
- John Lancashire: English priest, martyred in 1555 during the reign of Queen Mary I
- Joe Lancashire: English retired rugby league footballer
- Stephen Lancashire: British businessman and co-founder of R and R Ice Cream
- Barry Lancashire: English cricketer, played 11 first-class matches for Lancashire
- Robert Lancashire: English track and field athlete and three time Olympian
- James Lancashire: English footballer for Wolves F.C. and Everton F.C.
- Paul Lancashire: Canadian professional ice hockey player, played for the Tampa Bay Lightning