Last Name Andrews

The last name "Andrews" is of English origin. It is derived from the given name "Andrew," which itself comes from the Greek name "Andreas," meaning "man" or "warrior." The name Andrew was popularized in England after the Norman Conquest of 1066. Over time, individuals who shared the name Andrew were often referred to by others using their given name plus the possessive form "s," resulting in the surname Andrews. It is a patronymic surname, implying a descent from an ancestor named Andrew. The name has spread to various English-speaking countries and is quite common today.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Andrews

The meaning and origin of the last name Andrews

The surname Andrews has its origins in Scotland and England. The name is derived from the given name Andrew, which comes from the Greek name Andreas, meaning "manly" or "courageous." The name was brought to the British Isles by early Christian missionaries and soon became popular among the Anglo-Saxons.

In Scotland, the surname Andrews is often associated with the patronymic tradition, where it would denote a son of someone named Andrew. Over time, the name spread across the country. In England, the surname Andrews is mostly found in the southern regions, particularly in counties like Kent, Essex, and Herefordshire.

The prominence of the surname Andrews can be attributed to various factors, including the importance of the name Andrew in religious contexts and the prevalence of the given name throughout history. Today, the surname Andrews is widely spread and is borne by people worldwide, reflecting its historical and diverse origins.

Geographical distribution of the last name Andrews

The last name Andrews has a wide geographical distribution, especially in English-speaking countries. In the United States, Andrews is a relatively common surname, particularly in states like Texas, California, Florida, and New York. It is also prevalent in Canada, particularly in provinces like Ontario and British Columbia. In the United Kingdom, Andrews is a fairly common surname, with notable concentrations in England, Scotland, and Wales. Australia and New Zealand also have a significant population of individuals with the last name Andrews, particularly in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, and Wellington. Additionally, Andrews can be found across various European countries such as Ireland, Germany, and France, often believed to be due to migration patterns and historical ties. Overall, the last name Andrews has a broad geographical distribution, being present in numerous English-speaking countries around the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Andrews

The last name Andrews can have numerous variations and spellings, showcasing the versatility and adaptability of surnames. Some common variations of Andrews include Andrus, Andress, Anders, Andreas, and Anderson. Each slight alteration in spelling adds a distinct touch to the name while still retaining its recognizable character. Additionally, regional influences and cultural backgrounds contribute to further variations. For instance, in Scotland, you may come across MacAndrews or McAndrews, indicating a Scottish lineage. In Ireland, the surname may appear as O'Andrews or O'Andreas, reflecting Irish heritage. Moreover, as names can evolve over time, different spellings emerge. These might include Andrewes, Androwes, or even Andrewes with an extra "s" at the end. Collectively, these variations and spellings of the last name Andrews exhibit the diversity and richness of heritage, reminding us of the intricate tapestry of human history.

Famous people with the last name Andrews

The last name Andrews has been associated with several prominent figures across various fields throughout history. One such individual is Julie Andrews, a legendary actress and singer known for her unrivaled talent and charm. She gained international recognition for her iconic roles in musicals such as "Mary Poppins" and "The Sound of Music." Leslie Andrews, a remarkable entrepreneur, is renowned for her contributions to the business world as the founder of Leslie Andrews Consulting and for her successful career in corporate sales. Aaron Andrews, an esteemed sports journalist and television personality, has become a household name in the field of sports broadcasting, particularly for his work with ESPN. Lastly, another notable figure is Dame Elisabeth Murdoch (née Greene), who was an Australian philanthropist and matriarch of the Murdoch media dynasty. She is remembered for her immense charitable contributions and influential role within the media industry.

Genealogical research on the last name Andrews

The surname Andrews has a rich and varied genealogical history. It derives from the personal name "Andrew", which comes from the Greek name "Andreas" meaning "manly". The name has ancient origins, tracing back to biblical times as one of the Twelve Apostles, Andrew the Apostle, who was the brother of St. Peter. The surname Andrews first emerged in England during the medieval period and became widespread throughout the British Isles. Notable instances of the name can be found in various records, such as the Domesday Book and parish registers. Over time, the Andrews family expanded beyond Britain, with Scottish, Irish, and American branches. Several individuals with the Andrews name achieved eminence, including artists, writers, politicians, and scientists. Today, the name Andrews continues to be prevalent worldwide, representing a diverse range of individuals with a shared ancestral connection.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Andrews"
• 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

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