Last Name Saunders

The last name Saunders has an English origin. It is derived from the medieval given name "Sander," a short form of Alexander, combined with the patronymic suffix "-s" meaning "son of." Therefore, Saunders signifies "son of Sander" or "son of Alexander." The name Sander itself was a popular given name in medieval England, originating from the Greek name Alexandros meaning "defender of men." Over time, the -s in Sanders became a separate family name, and Saunders emerged as an alternative spelling.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Saunders

The meaning and origin of the last name Saunders

The surname Saunders is derived from the personal name "Sander," which is the short form of Alexander. Alexander is of Greek origin and means "defender of men" or "protector." The name was introduced to Britain by the Norman Conquest in 1066 and became popular during the medieval period. As a surname, Saunders emerged as a patronymic form, indicating "son of Sander" or "son of Alexander." Over time, different spelling variations of the surname appeared, such as Sanders, Sandars, and Saunders. The name has primarily been found in England, Scotland, and Wales. Saunders can be traced back to numerous historical figures and notable individuals, including notable colonists and American Revolutionary War figures. Today, Saunders remains a relatively common surname in English-speaking countries, often associated with strength, protection, and noble origins.

Geographical distribution of the last name Saunders

The last name Saunders has a widespread geographical distribution, with notable concentrations in various regions across the world. In the United States, Saunders is most commonly found in the southeastern states, particularly Virginia and North Carolina, where it originated from English settlers. It also has a significant presence in the northeastern states, including New York and Massachusetts. In Canada, Saunders is prevalent in Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as Nova Scotia. In the United Kingdom, the surname is widespread, particularly in England, with concentrations in London, Essex, and Yorkshire. Additionally, Saunders can be found in Australia, particularly in New South Wales and Queensland, due to migration and colonization. Other countries with notable populations of Saunders include Jamaica, Barbados, and South Africa. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Saunders reflects its historical origins and migration patterns of individuals bearing this surname.

Variants and spellings of the last name Saunders

Saunders is a surname that has several variations and alternative spellings. Some of the common variations include Saunders, Saunder, Sawnders, and Sanderson. Other less frequent variations include Saunderson, Sanderson, and Sonderson. These variations have emerged over time due to regional accents, dialects, and changes in how names were recorded and passed down through generations. Additionally, individuals with the surname Saunders may have changed the spelling themselves for various reasons, such as personal preference, phonetic spelling, or clerical errors. It is also worth noting that different cultures and countries may have their own unique variations of the surname, reflecting the influence of different languages and naming conventions. Despite these variations, the core meaning of the surname remains consistent, referring to a patronymic surname meaning "son of Alexander" or "son of Andrew."

Famous people with the last name Saunders

There are several famous individuals who have made their mark with the last name Saunders. George Saunders, an acclaimed American author, has gained international recognition for his unique storytelling abilities and imaginative works. With multiple awards to his name, including the prestigious Man Booker Prize, Saunders's writing is known for its insightful observations on society and human nature. Another notable figure is Jennifer Saunders, a British comedian, screenwriter, and actress. She is best known for her iconic role as Edina Monsoon in the popular television series "Absolutely Fabulous." With her sharp wit and comedic timing, Saunders has become a household name and has received numerous accolades for her contributions to the entertainment industry. Additionally, Maxine Peake Saunders, a talented British actress and playwright, has garnered widespread acclaim for her versatile performances both on stage and screen. Whether it be her critically acclaimed portrayals of historical figures or complex fictional characters, Peake Saunders continues to captivate audiences with her talent and dedication to her craft. These remarkable individuals have brought the name Saunders into the public eye, leaving a lasting impact on their respective fields of literature, comedy, and acting.

Genealogical research on the last name Saunders

The last name Saunders is an English surname of occupational origin. It is derived from the medieval English word "saundre," meaning a sandal maker or cobbler. The first recorded instance of this surname is Walter de Sau[u]nders, who appeared in the Pipe Rolls of Berkshire, England, in 1166. Over the centuries, the name Saunders spread throughout England, and its bearers can now be found in various parts of the world. In the United States, many Saunders families can trace their roots back to early settlers from England, particularly in Virginia and Massachusetts. Notable individuals with the surname include British author and journalist Anne Saunders, American actor and comedian Bernie Mac (whose birth name was Bernard Jeffrey McCullough), and English actress Jennifer Saunders, known for her role in the comedy series "Absolutely Fabulous." Today, the Saunders surname continues to thrive, representing a diverse range of people across different professions and walks of life.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Saunders"
• 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

Share the origin of your last name with your friends