Last Name Large

The last name "Large" is of English origin. It is derived from the Middle English word "large," which means "big" or "generous." It was likely used as a nickname to describe someone who was physically large or had a generous nature. Over time, this nickname became a hereditary surname passed down through generations.

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The meaning and origin of the last name Large

The surname Large is of English origin and traces its roots back to the medieval period. It is a descriptive surname, derived from the Middle English word "larg(e)" which means "big" or "tall." The name was initially used to identify someone of large or imposing physical stature, or perhaps to describe someone who had a larger-than-life personality. Alternatively, it could have been employed as a nickname for a wealthy landowner or a prominent individual within the community. Over time, as surnames became hereditary, the name Large was passed down through generations and spread across different regions of England. Variations of the surname can also be found in other English-speaking countries due to migration and emigration patterns. Today, bearers of the surname Large can be found worldwide, with their family history reflecting a diverse range of occupations and achievements.

Geographical distribution of the last name Large

The last name Large has a relatively diverse geographical distribution, with concentrations of individuals bearing this surname found predominantly in English-speaking countries. In the United Kingdom, Large is a fairly common last name, especially in southern regions like Hampshire, Sussex, and Kent. Additionally, it can also be found in other parts of Europe, such as France and Germany. In the United States, the Large surname is most prevalent in states with historically significant English migration, including Virginia, Kentucky, and Georgia. It is also present in Canada, particularly in regions with a significant British influence, such as Ontario and British Columbia. Australia and New Zealand also have a notable population of individuals with the last name Large, possibly owing to their British colonial past. While the last name Large may have originated in English-speaking territories, it is likely that migration and globalization have further expanded its geographical distribution over time.

Variants and spellings of the last name Large

The last name Large has a few variations and spellings that can be found across different regions and time periods. Some common variations include Larg, Larch, Lag, and Larj. These variations may have emerged due to different dialects, regional accents, or transcription errors in official records. Additionally, there can be alternative spellings such as Larje, Largh, Largue, Largy, Largey, or even Largee. These different spellings may have been adopted by individuals or families as a way to differentiate themselves or simply as a result of confusion or miscommunication. It is also worth noting that some variations may have been influenced by historical events or immigrations to different countries. Despite the variations in spelling and pronunciation, all these iterations represent branches of the same family tree and have a common ancestry.

Famous people with the last name Large

David Large is a renowned astrophysicist who has made significant contributions to our understanding of the universe. His research on the formation and evolution of galaxies has earned him numerous accolades and prestigious awards. Large's groundbreaking work on dark matter and dark energy has revolutionized our understanding of the fundamental forces that shape the cosmos. He is widely recognized for his inspiring teaching methods and his ability to captivate audiences with his engaging lectures. Additionally, Large is an advocate for promoting science education and has actively worked towards making astronomy more accessible to the general public. Through his efforts, he has inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in the field of astrophysics, leaving an indelible mark on the scientific community. David Large's contributions have not only expanded our knowledge of the universe but also instilled a sense of wonder and curiosity in generations of aspiring scientists.

Genealogical research on the last name Large

The last name Large has origins in the English language and is primarily an occupational surname. It is derived from the Middle English word "large" which means "a maker or seller of large-sized items or "a person associated with abundance or greatness." The name Large could have been attributed to those engaged in the trade of producing or selling large fabric, clothing, or other goods. Alternatively, it might have been a nickname given to individuals who were physically large in stature. The surname Large has been recorded in various spelling variations over the years, including Larg, Largh, Larc, Large, and others. Genealogical research reveals that individuals bearing the name Large settled in different parts of England, particularly in the counties of Yorkshire, Worcestershire, and Staffordshire. Over time, descendants of the Large family emigrated to diverse regions, spreading their surname to other parts of the world.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Large"
• 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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