Adams Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Adams come from? What does the surname Adams mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Adams and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Adams Origin: What does the last name Adams mean?
Adams is a common surname of English and Scottish origin, derived from the given name Adam. The surname has been present in records from Wales, United Kingdom, since the early 12th century. It remained closely associated with England and Wales from the 12th to the 15th century and later spread to the United States in the 17th century. Today, the Adams surname is prominent in the United States and is found in countries worldwide, reflecting a wide global presence.
YourRoots data confirms the presence of the Adams surname in the United Kingdom since the early 12th century. The surname steadily expanded and spread globally from the 17th century onwards, with records showing its presence in countries such as the United States, India, Spain, Argentina, Germany, Ireland, France, Nigeria, and more. The Adams surname reflects a rich history and continues to be prevalent in various regions and cultures in the modern era.
Adams Last Name History: Where did the last name Adams come from?
Origin of Adams Surname: Where does the last name Adams originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Adams first appeared in records from Wales, United Kingdom, around the early 12th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact ‚Äö"Adams" spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Adams: What does the Adams surname history look like in the early days?
The ‚Äö"Adams" surname remained closely associated with the United Kingdom, particularly England and Wales, from the 12th through the 15th century. YourRoots data also shows Adams family records in the United States starting from the 17th century, indicating a shift and spread across the Atlantic.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Adams surname today?
By the 17th century, the frequency of records with the Adams surname grew significantly in the United States, surpassing the United Kingdom. This trend continued into the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, the ‚Äö"Adams" surname remains prominent in the United States, but also appears in countries worldwide. While specific country data for the 20th and 21st centuries is not provided, the historical trends suggest a wide global presence.
Explore Adams last name heritage and Adams surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Adams Surame?
Ansel Adams
Ansel Easton Adams (Feb 20, 1902 – Apr 22, 1984) was a renowned American landscape photographer and environmentalist known for his iconic black-and-white images of the American West. He co-founded Group f/64, emphasizing "pure" photography with sharp focus and full tonal range. Adams developed the Zone System with Fred Archer, revolutionizing image-making techniques. His lifelong commitment to environmental conservation led to the expansion of the National Park system. Recognized with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, Adams also played a pivotal role in establishing photography as a legitimate art form. His work continues to inspire nature photographers and conservationists worldwide.
Amy Adams
Amy Lou Adams (August 20, 1974 - ) is an American actress known for her versatile roles in both comedic and dramatic films. She has received numerous accolades, including two Golden Globe Awards and multiple Academy Award nominations. Adams gained recognition for her roles in movies like "Enchanted," "American Hustle," and "Arrival." She has also appeared in superhero films as Lois Lane in the DC Extended Universe. With a career spanning decades, Adams has proven herself as a talented and respected actress in Hollywood.
John Adams
John Adams (October 30, 1735 – July 4, 1826) was a key figure in American history, serving as the second president of the United States. He was a Founding Father and a leader in the American Revolution, playing a crucial role in achieving independence from Great Britain. Adams also served as the first vice president of the United States and was known for his dedication to principles like the right to counsel and presumption of innocence. His presidency was marked by challenges such as the French Revolutionary Wars and criticism from both political rivals and his own party. Adams' legacy includes his contributions to the Declaration of Independence and the Massachusetts Constitution.
Douglas Adams
Douglas Noel Adams (Mar 11, 1952 – May 11, 2001) was an English author, humorist, and screenwriter best known for creating The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. His work evolved into a series of books, TV shows, stage plays, comics, and a feature film. Adams also wrote for Doctor Who and Monty Python, showcasing his versatile talent. A lover of fast cars and technology, he was known for his environmental advocacy and radical atheism. Adams's legacy lives on through his influential contributions to British radio, literature, and comedy.
Eric Adams
Eric Leroy Adams (born Sep 1, 1960) is an American politician and former police officer who currently serves as the Mayor of New York City. He has a background in law enforcement, having served in the New York City Police Department for over 20 years before entering politics. Adams has made headlines for his tough-on-crime approach and controversial policies regarding homelessness in the city. Despite facing accusations of corruption during his tenure, Adams continues to be a prominent figure in New York City politics.
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