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Last Name Tedford

What is the origin of the last name Tedford?

The surname "Tedford" is of English origin. It is believed to be a locational surname derived from the Old English words "tad" meaning "toad" and "ford" meaning "a shallow river crossing." Therefore, "Tedford" is thought to have originally referred to someone who lived near a shallow river crossing where toads were abundant. Over time, individuals living in that area may have adopted the name as their surname to distinguish themselves from others.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Tedford

The meaning and origin of the last name Tedford

The surname Tedford is of English origin, derived from the Old English name "Tidford," a locational name indicating a person who resided near a ford on the River Tid. The personal name "Tid" itself translates to "time" or "tide," suggesting that the original bearers of the surname may have been associated with the river or its surrounding area. The suffix "-ford" refers to a river crossing point, indicating the presence of a ford in the vicinity. Over time, the surname underwent phonetic transformations, giving rise to variations such as Tedford. Interestingly, the surname saw a significant increase in popularity during the 1700s and 1800s, possibly due to increased migration and more rigorous record-keeping practices. Today, individuals with the surname Tedford can be found worldwide, although its concentration remains highest in the United States and United Kingdom.

Geographical distribution of the last name Tedford

The last name Tedford is primarily found in the United States, particularly in the southern and southeastern regions. It is most prevalent in the states of Texas, Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi. These areas are historically known for their agricultural and rural communities, where the Tedford family most likely settled and spread their name. The concentration of individuals with the Tedford surname can also be attributed to migration patterns, as many families moved from these regions and settled in other parts of the country. Additionally, there are small pockets of the Tedford name in Canada, particularly in the province of Ontario. However, the overall distribution of the last name Tedford remains relatively limited, suggesting that it is relatively uncommon and may have had a more localized origin.

Variants and spellings of the last name Tedford

The last name Tedford may have a few variations and spellings depending on regional dialects and historical changes. Some possible variations of Tedford include Turford, Titford, Tidford, and Teadford. These variations might have arisen due to different phonetic interpretations or spellings in various regions over time. Additionally, alternative spellings such as Tedforde or Tedforth have been documented, indicating individual preferences or clerical errors during record-keeping. The existence of similar-sounding surnames like Tedrow or Tedbury further demonstrates the potential for variations in spelling and pronunciation. It is common for names to evolve and adapt through generations, leading to a diverse range of variations for a particular surname like Tedford. Exploring these variations can offer insights into a family's history and migration patterns.

Famous people with the last name Tedford

Tedford is not a widely recognized last name in terms of famous individuals. It seems to be a less common surname, making it challenging to identify well-known personalities associated with it. However, there are a few notable individuals with the last name Tedford. Jeff Tedford is a renowned American football coach who served as the head coach for the University of California, Berkeley, leading their team to success during his tenure. Another figure bearing the Tedford surname is Nate Tedford, a talented photographer and filmmaker known for his stunning landscape imagery. Despite the relative scarcity of famous individuals with the last name Tedford, these personalities have made a mark in their respective fields, showcasing their excellence and passion.

Genealogical research on the last name Tedford

The surname Tedford is of Scottish origin and has roots that span centuries. The name is believed to have derived from the Old English personal name "Tatfrith," meaning "cheerful and peaceful ruler." The earliest recorded instance of the Tedford name dates back to the late 12th century in Scotland. Over time, the family grew and became prominent in various regions, including Northern Ireland and the United States. Generations of Tedfords continued to flourish, and the name spread across different states in America, particularly in the South, where many descendants settled. Today, the Tedford surname can be found in various parts of the world, with individuals tracing their ancestry back to their Scottish and Irish roots. The rich genealogical heritage of the Tedford name serves as a testament to the enduring legacy and interconnectedness of families throughout history.

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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