Last Name Adams

The last name "Adams" has both English and Hebrew origins. In English, "Adams" is a patronymic surname derived from the given name Adam, which has Hebrew roots. "Adam" means 'man' or 'earth' in Hebrew, and it is also the name of the first man created by God in the Bible. Over time, the name "Adams" was formed to indicate 'son of Adam.' The English surname "Adams" can also be traced back to the medieval personal name "Adamo," which evolved from the Latin "Adamus" or "Adamas." It is believed that this personal name was introduced to Britain by the Normans after the Norman Conquest of 1066. Therefore, the last name "Adams" can be associated with either the Hebrew name "Adam" or the Norman personal name "Adamo/Adamas."

Learn more about the origin of the last name Adams

The meaning and origin of the last name Adams

The surname Adams is a patronymic surname derived from the Hebrew personal name Adam, meaning "man" or "human." It traces its origins back to biblical times, being the name of the first man according to the Old Testament. As a result, the surname Adams is of ancient origin and can be found across various cultures and countries. The surname Adams is predominantly associated with English, Scottish, and Welsh ancestry. It is believed to have spread throughout the British Isles during the medieval period. In England, the surname Adams became particularly prevalent after the Protestant Reformation, as individuals began adopting surnames derived from biblical figures. Over time, Adams became a relatively common surname in the British Isles and subsequently spread to other parts of the world through migration and colonization. Today, individuals with the surname Adams can be found worldwide, especially in English-speaking countries. Notable bearers of the surname include famous figures like John Adams, the second President of the United States, and Douglas Adams, the acclaimed British author of "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy."

Geographical distribution of the last name Adams

The last name Adams has a widespread geographical distribution, with a significant presence in various parts of the world. Primarily originating from England, the name Adams can be found throughout the United Kingdom, particularly in areas such as London, Birmingham, and Manchester. The dispersion of the name occurred during the British colonization era, resulting in the name being prevalent in various former British colonies, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. In the United States, Adams is a common surname, and it is particularly associated with the U.S. presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams. Additionally, the name has found its way into South Africa, where many British settlers migrated, as well as other parts of Europe, such as Germany and the Netherlands. Due to immigration and global migration trends, the last name Adams is increasingly common in diverse regions worldwide, making it a recognizable and internationally dispersed surname.

Variants and spellings of the last name Adams

The last name Adams can have several variations and spelling adaptations. Some common variations include Addams, Adamms, Adames, Aadam, and Aadams, among others. These variations stem from regional accents, migrations, or simply personal preferences in spelling. Additionally, different populations may have diverse phonetic interpretations of the name, leading to further variations. Certain spelling variations, such as Addams, might arise due to the anglicization of foreign surnames or phonetic changes over time. Adames could be a Hispanic adaptation of the name, reflecting a different pronunciation and cultural background. Aadam or Aadams might be alternative spellings representing different ethnic origins or unique family lineages. The variations and spellings of the last name Adams showcase the diverse ways in which individuals and families have personalized and adapted their names over generations. These differences serve as a reminder of the complex nature of family history and the various paths individuals and their ancestors have traversed.

Famous people with the last name Adams

The last name Adams has been associated with numerous famous individuals throughout history. One of the most prominent figures is John Adams, the second President of the United States who played a crucial role in drafting the Declaration of Independence. His son, John Quincy Adams, also held the presidency and contributed greatly to American diplomacy and expansion. Moreover, Abigail Adams, John Adams' wife, has become an emblematic figure as she championed women's rights and served as an influential advisor to her husband. Additionally, Ansel Adams, a renowned American photographer, is celebrated for his breathtaking black and white landscape images that captured the beauty of the American West. Lastly, Amy Adams, a celebrated actress, has received numerous accolades for her versatile performances in films such as "American Hustle" and "Arrival," solidifying her status as one of the finest actors of her generation. These famous individuals with the last name Adams have left indelible marks in various fields, showcasing their exceptional talents and contributions.

Genealogical research on the last name Adams

The last name Adams has a rich and notable genealogical history. The name derives from the Hebrew name Adam, meaning "man" or "earth," and it is one of the earliest recorded surnames in the English-speaking world. The Adams family can be traced back to England, where they were prominent throughout the Middle Ages. One of the most famous individuals bearing the name Adams is John Adams, the second President of the United States, and his son John Quincy Adams, who served as the sixth President. The Adams family's lineage extends further, with branches in Ireland, Scotland, and other parts of Europe. Over the centuries, various prominent individuals with the last name Adams have emerged in different fields such as politics, literature, and the arts, leaving behind a lasting legacy. Today, the name Adams is widespread across the globe, testament to the enduring influence and significance of this remarkable lineage.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Adams"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

Share the origin of your last name with your friends