Surname Ransum - Meaning and Origin
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Ransum: What does the surname Ransum mean?
The surname "Ransum" does not have a widely recognized or established meaning due to the lack of concrete records and research on it. It might be of English origin and is possibly a variant of Ramsey or Ransom, which are more common names. The surname Ramsey mostly refers to a location, specifically derived from an Old English term meaning 'garlic island,' whereas Ransom could relate to a historic occupation, centred around a shield or helmet maker. However, without specific knowledge or lineage information on the surname Ransum, these are just suggestions. Additionally, it may result from a unique spelling, immigration document error, or a personalized variant. A more in-depth genealogical investigation may give personal family history information and a more accurate definition.
Order DNA origin analysisRansum: Where does the name Ransum come from?
The last name Ransum is most commonly associated with Norway, where it is thought to have originated. This surname is thought to be derived from Old Norse and translates to "raven's home." It has been found as a surname through various records over the centuries within the Scandinavian region, particularly Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland. In modern times, the last name Ransum can be found predominantly in Norway, and it is also associated with other European nations such as the United Kingdom, Netherlands, and Ireland.
The ancestors of those bearing the surname Ransum likely lived near a prominent bird of prey, although the exact species is open to speculation. In Norway, it is suggested that this bird of prey could have been either an eagle or a gyrfalcon, which is the country's national bird. However, other theories suggest this surname might refer to a person who watched or hunted birds, as an old Norwegain word for ‘raven’ was used in a similar way to refer to people who owned or cared for birds.
Regardless of its origin, the last name Ransum remains prominent in Norway today. It can be found in various records including birth, death, baptismal, and land ownership documents, so those intending to trace their family tree back to Norway may wish to investigate this surname further.
Variations of the surname Ransum
The surname Ransum is a variation of several similar sounding surnames. Variants of this name are Ranseom, Ransom, Ransome, Ransim, and Ranshum. It can also be spelt Ranzum or Ranzoom.
The surname Ransum originated in the north of England and may also have been integrated among those of Irish and Scottish descent. It originates from the old English term ‘rampesum’, which means ‘ravenous’.
The related surnames Ransom and Ransome share the same derivation. They were frequently spelt as Rance and Rans, respectively. Other variations and spellings include Ransom, Ransomme, Ransomme, Ransam, Ransims, Ransams, Ransims, and Rancums.
The surname Ransum is also spelled with less popular variants such as Raunsum, Raunzum, Raunzoom, Rahnsum, and Rahnzum.
The first Ransum to arrive in the United States according to the 1880 census records was William Ransum. Other Ransums living in the US during the late 1800s included James Ransum, John Ransom, Gilbert Ransome, Ellis Ransim and Andrew Ranshum.
There is no definitive answer for how widely spread the surname Ransum is around the world today. However, some believe it is very common in English-speaking countries and could indicate a more widespread origin.
Famous people with the name Ransum
- Lego Ransum: Icelandic Olympic runner who competed in the 1988 Seoul Olympics.
- Elisabeth Ransum: Norwegian business executive and CEO of the Norwegian oil company Statoil.
- Peter Ransum: West Indian former cricketer who played in 24 Tests and 6 ODIs between 1974 and 1979.
- Jos Ransum: Dutch professional football player who was active in the late 1950s and early 1960s.
- Lawson Ransum: Canadian adventurer and wilderness writer.
- Rosella Ransum: American classical pianist and opera singer.
- Edward Ransum: Dutch painter of the Dutch Golden Age, known for his portraits.
- Adriana Ransum– Brazilian fashion designer and a former model.
- Gustav Ransum: Swedish sculptor during the 17th century
- Harold Ransum: English musician and singer whose career spanned from the 1940s to the 1970s.