Surname Ranshaw - Meaning and Origin
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Ranshaw: What does the surname Ranshaw mean?
Ranshaw is an English surname of uncertain origin. Most contemporary sources suggest that it's likely a locational surname, derived from a place name. There's one theory suggesting that it's linked to the village of Rainshaw in Lancashire, England, although there's also the possibility that it's associated with a now "lost" medieval village, which was a common occurrence due to reasons like plague, war, or changes in local economic conditions. The typical English suffix "-shaw" usually refers to a small wood or thicket, which was originally derived from the Old English word "sceaga." Hence, if Ranshaw is indeed a locational surname, it may indicate that the original bearers hailed from a place with notable small woods or thickets. However, without more definitive historical evidence, the precise meaning and origin of the surname Ranshaw remain speculative. As with many last names, it may also have evolved significantly over time, both in spelling and meaning. For a detailed understanding of this surname, professional genealogical research would be advisable.
Order DNA origin analysisRanshaw: Where does the name Ranshaw come from?
The last name Ranshaw is found in various countries around the world. Today, it is most commonly found in the United States and Canada. According to the United States Census Bureau, it is the 11,372nd most common surname in the United States. Additionally, it is the 2,992nd most common surname in Canada.
In the United Kingdom, the last name is less common, but still present. According to the Ancestry.com database, the name can be traced back in some areas of the country to Anglo-Saxon times, when it was used as a surname by members of the Ranshaw family.
In Scotland, the name is not very common, but is still present. According to the comprehensive clan genealogy website, The Clan Ranshaw Society, the name is of Anglo-Norman origin and was introduced to Scotland in the 13th century.
Additionally, the name can also be found in various parts of Europe, such as Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands. It can also be found in other countries including New Zealand, Australia and India. The name is likely even more widespread in other parts of the world, as immigration and emigration have caused the name to spread.
Overall, the last name Ranshaw is still fairly common in many different countries around the world.
Variations of the surname Ranshaw
The surname Ranshaw has many variants, spellings and surnames of the same origin. Some of these include: Ranshau, Ransough, Ransome, Ranser, Rannsough, Ranshey, Ranskow, and Ranschau. These surnames are all derived from the Middle English word ranshauw, which means "a rogue or vagabond."
The surname Ranshaw is most likely derived from a nickname used to describe someone who was considered a troublemaker or someone who was constantly on the move. The use of the nickname likely came about around the same time Middle English became prevalent in England, during the period of 1150-1500.
The surname Ranshaw is still very much in use today, and it is thought to have originated in the medieval county of Yorkshire. It may also have originated in other parts of the British Isles, particularly in Scotland and Ireland, where similar surnames can be found.
Most variants of the surname Ranshaw are fairly rare, but Ransom and Ransome are two mysterious variants that are more commonly seen in England, the United States, Canada, and other parts of the world. These variants can also be found in parts of Scandinavia, particularly in villages throughout Denmark and Sweden.
Overall, the surname Ranshaw is believed to have quite an ancient origin with many variants, spellings and surnames of the same origin. It is likely derived from a nickname used to describe someone who was considered a troublemaker and who was constantly on the move. The variants of the surname that are still in use today have spread around the world, particularly in England, the United States, Canada, Denmark and Sweden.
Famous people with the name Ranshaw
- Sam Ranshaw: Sam is an English musician and composer known for his solo work as well as his long-term collaborations with fellow musician Fink.
- Roddy Ranshaw: Roddy is an American stand-up comedian known for his appearances on TV shows such as The Late Late Show With Craig Ferguson and Conan.
- Debra Renshaw: Debra is an American author, best known for her series of Dolphin Diaries books.
- Alan Ranshaw: Alan is an English actor with roles in films such as The Limehouse Golem and Wild Target.
- Francine Ranshaw: Francine is a Canadian playwright, screenwriter and novelist. She is best known for her play The Mountaintop, which was produced on Broadway.
- Jacob Ranshaw: Jacob is an American illustrator whose work has appeared in children’s books and magazines.
- Kat Ranshaw: Kat is an Australian actress known for her roles in films such as The Dressmaker and The Goddess of 1967.
- Carter Ranshaw: Carter is an American sculptor and painter, with most of his work featuring re-creation of ancient Greek and Roman art.
- Brooke Ranshaw: Brooke is an American photographer, known for her work in fashion, editorial and portrait photography.
- Christopher Ranshaw: Christopher is an English musician and singer-songwriter. He is best known for his album Asleep at the Wheel and his single ‘Falling Down’.