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Last Name Susan

What is the origin of the last name Susan?

The surname "Susan" is of English and Scottish origin. It is believed to be derived from the medieval feminine given name "Susanna" or "Susan" which comes from the Hebrew name "Shoshana" meaning lily or rose. This name became popular in Britain after the Protestant Reformation and was often given to girls born on or around the feast day of Saint Susanna. Over time, the name evolved into a surname. Variants of the surname include "Suson" and "Suessen."

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Susan

The meaning and origin of the last name Susan

The surname Susan is of English origin and is derived from the medieval feminine given name "Susanna," which was ultimately of Hebrew origin from the name Shoshannah, meaning lily or rose. It is also possible that the surname could have originated from a nickname for a popular female first name, as was common in medieval times. The name Susan has been used as a surname in various English-speaking countries, including the United Kingdom and the United States. Today, individuals with the surname Susan can be found in different parts of the world, with variations in spelling and pronunciation depending on regional influences. Overall, the surname Susan carries a sense of femininity and grace, reflecting the meanings associated with the original Hebrew name from which it derived.

Geographical distribution of the last name Susan

The last name Susan has a fairly widespread geographical distribution, with significant concentrations in a few key regions. It is most commonly found in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States, where it is a relatively common surname. The name also has a presence in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Additionally, countries in Africa such as Nigeria and Kenya have populations with the last name Susan. In Europe, countries like Germany and Poland have small numbers of individuals with this surname. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Susan is diverse, with pockets of concentration in certain countries and regions across the world. This suggests that the name has likely spread through migration and historical influences, resulting in a varied and widespread presence in different parts of the globe.

Variants and spellings of the last name Susan

The last name Susan can be spelled in various ways, such as Sussan, Soosan, or Suzan. Other common variations include Suzane, Suzanna, or Susanna. Different cultural backgrounds may also influence the spelling, with variations such as Soussan, Sosan, or Souzan. Some lesser-known spellings might include Suzein or Suisan. These variations in spelling can make genealogical research challenging, as individuals may choose to spell their last name in a non-traditional way or adopt different spellings over time. Despite the numerous variations, the last name Susan remains relatively recognizable and distinct, with a long history of use in various cultures and regions around the world.

Famous people with the last name Susan

Some famous people with the last name Susan include Susan Sarandon, an Academy Award-winning actress known for her roles in films such as "Thelma & Louise" and "Dead Man Walking." Susan B. Anthony was a prominent women's rights advocate and suffragist who played a crucial role in securing the right to vote for women in the United States. Susan Boyle gained fame after appearing on the reality TV show "Britain's Got Talent," wowing audiences with her powerful singing voice. Susan Wojcicki is the CEO of YouTube, overseeing the popular video-sharing platform's growth and expansion. These women have made a significant impact in their respective fields and continue to inspire others with their talent, activism, and leadership.

Genealogical research on the last name Susan

The last name Susan originated as a given name for girls and eventually evolved into a surname. It is believed to have English and Hebrew roots, with variations including Susanna and Susannah. The name Susan is derived from the Hebrew name Shoshana, meaning lily or rose. The surname Susan can be traced back to medieval times, with records of individuals bearing the name found in England, Scotland, and Ireland. The Susan family likely spread to other English-speaking countries through migration and settlement. Throughout history, individuals with the surname Susan have been involved in various occupations and have made contributions to their communities. Today, the name Susan continues to be passed down through generations and remains a part of many family trees around the world.

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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