We have compiled a list of the 40 most popular surnames across Derbyshire, so you can see how many other people bearing your family name are spread across the county.
As well as this, we have provided details of the hidden meanings behind each surname – with some of these historical names descending from the Normans, Hebrews and Germanic tribes, among others.
All data relating to the popularity of surnames across Derbyshire was taken from Forebears, and information on the meaning of each surname was taken from Ancestry and FindMyPast.
17. Shaw
There are 3,436 Shaw’s across Derbyshire, making it the county’s 17th most common surname. The surname may be topographic for someone who lived in or by a small wood. Pictured here is Dave Shaw, headteacher at Spire Junior School, being presented with headteacher of the year award by Richard Mapley from Hayes. Photo: Brian Eyre
18. Ward
Ward is 18th on this list, with the surname held by 3,409 Derbyshire residents. This is an occupational name for a watchman or guard from the Middle English ‘ward’, meaning watchman guard. Pictured here are Guide Dogs charity volunteers Bron Rawlins, Toni Harrington, Alan and Sue Ward and Vicky Ibbotson. Photo: jason chadwick
19. Jackson
There are 3,346 Jackson’s across Derbyshire, ranking this surname as the 19th most common. The name is derived from ancestors called Jack, a common English and Scottish pet form of John. Pictured here is Stuart Jackson at the Bloomin Bootiful market stall. Photo: Brian Eyre
20. Thompson
Thompson is 20th on this list, held by 3,273 people across the county. Thompson means ‘son of Tom’, a pet name for Thomas. Thomas comes from the personal name Thomas of Biblical (New Testament) origin from the Aramaic ‘t’ōm’’a’ - a byname meaning ‘twin’. Pictured here are Stephen and Karen Thompson from Moss Valley Fine Meats, presented with a business award by Dan Isterling. Photo: Marie Caley