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Last Name Rofe

What is the origin of the last name Rofe?

The surname "Rofe" is of English origin. It is derived from the medieval given name "Ralph," which in turn comes from the Old Norse name "Ráðulfr." The name "Rofe" was likely used to denote someone who was the son of someone named Ralph, or as a nickname for a person resembling a wolf.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Rofe

The meaning and origin of the last name Rofe

The surname Rofe is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word "hrof," which means "roof." It was likely used as a topographic name for someone who lived in or near a prominent roofed structure, such as a large house or barn. Alternatively, it could have been an occupational name for a roofer or thatcher. The surname Rofe has several variations, including Roof, Roofer, and Rufer. The name can be found throughout different regions of England and has been recorded in historical documents dating back to the 12th century. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the surname may have changed, leading to the various forms and variations that exist today.

Geographical distribution of the last name Rofe

The surname Rofe is most commonly found in the United Kingdom, particularly in England and Scotland. It is also present in smaller numbers in countries such as Australia, the United States, and Canada. Within the UK, the highest concentration of individuals with the last name Rofe can be found in regions such as London, Yorkshire, and Essex. The spread of this surname to other English-speaking countries can be attributed to historical migration patterns and the dispersal of individuals seeking new opportunities abroad. Overall, the geographical distribution of the surname Rofe is relatively limited compared to more common surnames, with the majority of individuals bearing this last name residing in the UK.

Variants and spellings of the last name Rofe

The last name Rofe may also be spelled as Roff, Roph, Rof, or Roffe. These variations are relatively common and may be encountered in different regions or historical periods. The variations in spelling may be due to factors such as phonetic changes, dialectal differences, or transcription errors. Additionally, individuals may choose to adopt a specific spelling of the last name for personal or professional reasons. Overall, the last name Rofe can be found in different forms and spellings, but they all ultimately refer to the same family name.

Famous people with the last name Rofe

One famous individual with the last name Rofe is Moshe Rofe, an Israeli artist and sculptor known for his abstract and innovative works. Rofe has gained recognition for his unique artistic style, which often combines elements of nature and modernism to create visually stunning pieces. In addition to his artwork, Rofe has also been involved in various cultural and educational initiatives, promoting the arts and creativity in Israel and beyond. Another notable figure with the last name Rofe is Dr. Stephen J. Rofe, a renowned psychologist and author who has made significant contributions to the field of mental health. Dr. Rofe has published numerous research papers and books on topics such as anxiety, depression, and stress management, earning him a reputation as a leading expert in his field.

Genealogical research on the last name Rofe

The last name Rofe is of English origin, deriving from the medieval personal name Rolf, itself a variation of the Old Norse name Hrolfr. The surname Rofe first appeared in records in the county of Yorkshire in northern England in the 13th century. Over time, the name spread throughout England and eventually to other English-speaking countries through migration and colonization. Variants of the name include Roff, Rolfe, and Rolph. Genealogical research indicates that individuals with the surname Rofe can trace their ancestry back to medieval England, with many branches of the family tree extending to different parts of the United Kingdom and beyond. Today, descendants of the Rofe family can be found in various countries around the world, continuing the legacy of their English roots.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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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