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Last Name Ruffell

What is the origin of the last name Ruffell?

The surname Ruffell is of English origin. It is derived from the Old English personal name Hrothwulf, which is composed of the elements "hroth" meaning fame, and "wulf" meaning wolf. Over time, the name Hrothwulf evolved into the surname Ruffell.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Ruffell

The meaning and origin of the last name Ruffell

The surname Ruffell is of English origin and is derived from the Old French personal name "Ro(u)f," which is a diminutive of Robert. The suffix "-ell" was commonly added to given names in medieval times to create patronymic surnames, indicating "the son of Robert." Over time, the name Ruffell evolved and became a surname in its own right. The name can be traced back to the 12th century in the Domesday Book, where individuals bearing variations of the name were recorded. The Ruffell surname is primarily found in the southern counties of England, particularly in Sussex, Kent, and Hampshire. The name likely spread to other parts of the country over time as individuals migrated for various reasons such as the Industrial Revolution or for trade opportunities. Today, Ruffell is a relatively rare surname, but its historical significance and roots in English history make it a fascinating name to research.

Geographical distribution of the last name Ruffell

The last name Ruffell has a relatively limited geographical distribution, with the majority of individuals bearing this surname found in the United Kingdom, particularly in England and Wales. Additionally, there are smaller concentrations of individuals with the surname Ruffell in countries such as Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. Within the UK, the name is most commonly found in areas such as Hampshire, Surrey, and Kent. The origins of the surname can be traced back to medieval England, with variations such as Ruffle and Ruffle being recorded in historical documents. The distribution of the surname Ruffell suggests that it may have originated from a specific region or family group, and has since dispersed to various parts of the world through migration and settlement.

Variants and spellings of the last name Ruffell

The last name Ruffell may be spelled in various ways due to its origins and different regional accents. Some variations include Ruffle, Ruffel, Ruffall, Ruffel, Ruffelle, and Ruffeld. These variations may stem from the phonetic pronunciation of the name or historical changes in the spelling over time. The name Ruffell itself is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word "hryfel," meaning rough or rugged. It is believed to have been a descriptive surname given to someone who lived in a rugged or hilly area. As with many surnames, the spelling and pronunciation of Ruffell may have evolved as families moved to different regions or countries, leading to the various ways in which the name can be seen today.

Famous people with the last name Ruffell

The most famous people with the last name Ruffell include comedian and actress Rose Matafeo, who has won multiple awards for her stand-up comedy and television work. Another well-known individual is musician Brooke Ruffell, who gained popularity as part of the indie rock band Tiger Boys. Additionally, author and journalist James Ruffell is recognized for his thought-provoking writing and insightful commentary on current events. Overall, the Ruffell name is associated with talented individuals across various creative industries, making them stand out in their respective fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Ruffell

The surname Ruffell is of English origin and is believed to have derived from the medieval personal name "Rou" or "Rowe," which means red-haired. The earliest record of the Ruffell name dates back to the early 17th century in Sussex, England. The name spread to other parts of the country, including London and Essex. One notable individual with the Ruffell surname was Thomas Ruffell, who was a successful businessman and landowner in the 19th century. Genealogical research on the Ruffell surname shows that descendants of this family have since migrated to Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the United States. Today, individuals with the surname Ruffell can be found throughout the English-speaking world, with a rich history tracing back centuries to their roots in England.

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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