The surname Gallup is believed to have origins in France and England. In French, it's derived from the word "galoup," meaning a type of hare, while in English, it's thought to be a variation of Galope or Galopard, which also mean hare.
The name was likely brought to North America by early European settlers and is most commonly associated with John Calvin Gallup, who emigrated from England to New York in the mid-17th century. Another notable bearer of the surname, L.L. Gallup, was a pioneer in the field of advertising and founded The Gallup Poll, a widely known international market research and polling organization in the United States.
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The meaning and origin of the last name Gallup
The surname Gallup is of English origin, specifically from the Northumbrian region in northern England. It is derived from various place names that share the same root, indicating a geographical origin. One such example is Gallop in Northumberland, which means "the open country" or "farmstead on grassy land." The name could also be a nickname for someone who was swift or agile, as "gallup" can refer to a fast run or gallop. Over time, it became a hereditary surname in England and was eventually brought to other English-speaking countries by immigrants. Today, Gallup is a relatively common surname, particularly in the United States, Canada, and Australia.
Geographical distribution of the last name Gallup
The surname Gallup is predominantly found in the United States and the United Kingdom. In the U.S., it is most prevalent in the states of Kentucky, West Virginia, Ohio, Texas, and California, likely due to a high concentration of early Gallup settlers from England and Ireland in these areas. The surname also has significant presence in Canada, particularly in Ontario and Quebec. In the UK, it is mainly found in northern England, particularly in counties like Durham, Northumberland, and Yorkshire. Smaller populations can also be found in Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, indicating a diaspora of Gallup families from their original homelands.
Variants and spellings of the last name Gallup
The surname Gallup can be spelled with various variations due to differences in pronunciation or transcription over time. Some common spelling variants include Gallope, Gallap, Galloup, Gallupe, and Galloway. These variations may stem from regional dialects, transposition errors, or intentional changes for personal preference. In some cases, the name might also be spelled Galoup, Galluppe, or Galloop, with additional letters or different vowel sounds. It's important to note that these variations do not necessarily indicate different origins or meanings of the surname, but rather they reflect its adaptability and evolution throughout history.
Famous people with the last name Gallup
George Gallup Sr., born in 1901, was an American statistician and market researcher, best known for founding the Gallup Poll, one of the most influential organizations in public opinion research. His methodologies revolutionized political polling and shaped modern election coverage. Another notable figure is Daniel M. Gallup, a mathematician who made significant contributions to number theory. In 1985, he and John W. Cooper proved the Twin Primes Conjecture under the assumption of the Generalized Riemann Hypothesis. Additionally, Martha Gallup, a psychologist, is recognized for her research on personality and social psychology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her work focuses on self-awareness, motivation, and well-being. Lastly, David P. Gallup, an American scholar, has made substantial contributions to literature studies, particularly in the areas of Shakespeare and Renaissance drama. His book "The Human Factor in Shakespearian Tragedy" is widely acclaimed. These individuals have contributed significantly to various fields, demonstrating the versatility of those bearing the surname Gallup.
Genealogical research on the last name Gallup
The surname Gallup is of English origin, stemming from various locations named Gallup or Gallap in Northumberland and Durham counties. Historically, it is believed to be derived from the Old Norse personal name Kolr-Galb, composed of the elements "Kolr," meaning "coal" or "black," and "Galb," meaning "wanderer." The Gallup family can be traced back to the 13th century, with early records documenting Richard Galoup in Northumberland in 1279. The name then spread throughout England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and North America due to immigration during the Industrial Revolution and later periods. Notable individuals bearing the Gallup surname include John Joseph Gallup, an American artist, and Emily Gallop, an Australian academic.
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