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What is the origin of the last name Page?

The surname "Page" is of Old French origin. It was originally a nickname for someone who worked as a page, a young servant in the household of a nobleman, or a manservant responsible for various tasks. The name evolved from the Old French word "page," which means 'boy' or 'youth.' Over time, it became a hereditary surname in England and was later brought to other parts of Europe and eventually to the American colonies by English settlers.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Page

The meaning and origin of the last name Page

The surname Page originates from Old French, derived from the word "page," which referred to a young servant who attended to a noble. This occupation-based name was given to individuals who held positions as pages or scribes in feudal households. Over time, it transitioned into a hereditary surname across Europe, particularly England and France. In some cases, the name could also be a topographic name for someone who lived near a pagus, a term used during the Roman Empire to denote a rural district. The surname Page is common in English-speaking countries, and its popularity can be attributed to its occupational origins and association with noble service.

Geographical distribution of the last name Page

The surname Page is predominantly found in English-speaking countries due to its origin from Old French pagus, meaning 'country' or 'district'. Historically, it was a topographic name for someone who lived in a rural district, or a nickname for someone thought to come from the country.

In modern times, the highest concentrations of people with the surname Page can be found primarily in England and Wales, where it ranks among the most common surnames. Significant populations of Pages are also present in Scotland, Ireland, and North America, particularly in the United States, Canada, and Australia, due to historical migration events such as the Norman Conquest of England, the Scottish diaspora, Irish immigration, and English colonial settlement. Smaller numbers of Pages can be found in other English-speaking countries, reflecting the global dispersal of people with Anglo-Saxon and Norman roots.

Variants and spellings of the last name Page

The surname Page has several variations and spellings due to phonetic changes, regional dialects, and transcription errors over time. Some common variations include Page, Paige, Pages, Paget, Pagette, and Paguet. In some cases, the name may also be spelled Payge or Payne, which originated as alternative ways to write the name during the Middle Ages due to differences in pronunciation among regional dialects. Additionally, there are instances where the surname Page has been Anglicized from similar names in other languages, such as Pagé (French) and Pagé or Pažout (Czech). These variations highlight the flexibility of the name throughout history, demonstrating how it has adapted to different cultures and languages.

Famous people with the last name Page

The last name Page is associated with several notable individuals across various fields. Larry Page, co-founder of Google, is one of the most well-known persons bearing this surname. As a computer science graduate from Stanford University, he, along with Sergey Brin, created Google in 1998, which revolutionized internet search and has since become an essential tool for millions worldwide. Another significant figure is James Page, the guitarist for iconic rock band Led Zeppelin. Known for his distinctive playing style and unique sound, he was a key contributor to the band's success from their formation in 1968 until their disbandment in 1980. Lastly, Marjorie Page, an American actress, gained recognition during the silent film era. She appeared in more than 250 films between 1914 and 1937, working with notable directors such as D.W. Griffith and Cecil B. DeMille.

Genealogical research on the last name Page

The surname Page originates from Old French and Norman roots, specifically "pagus," meaning 'country' or 'district.' It was initially used as a nickname for someone who lived in a rural area or district, or it could have been a topographical name for someone who resided near a boundary or demarcation. The Page family's lineage can be traced back to the Norman Conquest of England in 1066 when William the Conqueror brought his followers, including many Normans with French names, to the British Isles. Throughout history, notable individuals bearing the surname Page have emerged across various fields, such as politics, literature, and military service. For instance, John Page (1534-1603), a Member of Parliament in Elizabethan England, and Edward Alleyn (1566-1627), an English actor who co-founded the famous playhouse The Fortune Theatre in London, both carried the surname Page.

Last name distribution maps

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NomOrigine Team
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.

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