Goldsmith Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Goldsmith come from? What does the surname Goldsmith mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Goldsmith and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Goldsmith Origin: What does the last name Goldsmith mean?
Goldsmith is a surname that originated as a variation of the common surname Smith. The surname Smith is of English origin and is derived from the Old English term for a metalworker. It has been a prominent occupational surname in England since Anglo-Saxon times, with records dating back to as early as 975. The surname Smith has spread widely in the English-speaking world and is especially common among individuals of English, Scottish, Irish, and African American descent. As of 2010, over 2 million Americans bore the surname Smith, with a significant presence in the UK as well.
YourRoots data shows that the Goldsmith surname has historical roots in England, with records dating back to the early 15th century. The surname has since spread globally, with notable concentrations in the United States. The Goldsmith surname is found in numerous countries, reflecting its widespread distribution and enduring legacy. As with the Smith surname, Goldsmith likely originated from a family involved in metalwork, and its prevalence across different regions underscores its rich history and continued significance in diverse cultures.
Goldsmith Last Name History: Where did the last name Goldsmith come from?
Origin of Goldsmith Surname: Where does the last name Goldsmith originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Goldsmith first appeared in records from England around the early 15th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Goldsmith spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Goldsmith: What does the Goldsmith surname history look like in the early days?
The Goldsmith surname remained closely associated with England from the 15th to the 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Goldsmith family records in countries like the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Goldsmith surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Goldsmith surname grew significantly in the United States. The Goldsmith surname remains prominent in the United States. It appears in many countries, including those mentioned above.
Explore Goldsmith last name heritage and Goldsmith surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Goldsmith Surame?
Jemima Goldsmith
Jemima Marcelle Goldsmith (born Jan 30, 1974) is an English journalist and screenwriter. She is the founder of Instinct Productions, a television production company, and has worked on various award-winning documentaries and TV series. Goldsmith comes from a prominent family background, including her father, a former MP, and her mother, from an aristocratic Anglo‚àíIrish family. She has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry, producing hit films and documentaries. Goldsmith's work has been well-received and recognized with nominations and awards. Her diverse career showcases her talent and dedication to storytelling and media production.
Jerry Goldsmith
Jerrald King Goldsmith (Feb 10, 1929 – July 21, 2004) was an American composer known for his iconic film and television scores spanning nearly 50 years. He won an Academy Award for scoring "The Omen" and was nominated for 18 more. Goldsmith composed for major franchises like Star Trek and Rambo, as well as films like "Alien," "Gremlins," and "Mulan." His work is celebrated for its innovation and influence in the world of film music, making him one of the most revered composers in the industry. Goldsmith's legacy continues to inspire aspiring musicians and composers worldwide.
James Goldsmith
Sir James Michael Goldsmith (26 Feb 1933 – 18 Jul 1997) was a French-British financier, tycoon, and politician known for his controversial business career and Eurosceptic views. He founded the short-lived Referendum Party in the UK and served as a Member of the European Parliament. Born into the influential Goldsmith family, he made headlines with his business ventures, including the acquisition of food companies and the creation of the Mothercare retail chain. Despite facing bankruptcy risks, Goldsmith's reorganizations aimed to increase shareholder value. His life story, from fleeing Nazi-occupied France to his successful business endeavors, remains a fascinating tale of resilience and ambition.
Ben Goldsmith
Benjamin James Goldsmith (born 28 Oct 1980) is an English financier and environmentalist. He is the founder and CEO of London-listed investment firm Menhaden, focusing on energy and resource efficiency. Goldsmith comes from a prominent family, with his late father, James Goldsmith, being a billionaire and his uncle co-founding the Green Party UK. He has used his personal wealth to support philanthropic and political projects in environmental and sustainability areas. Goldsmith is also known for co-founding the UK Environmental Funders Network and being actively involved in activist environmental philanthropy.
Oliver Goldsmith
Oliver Goldsmith (10 Nov 1728 – 4 Apr 1774) was an Anglo-Irish poet, novelist, and playwright known for his diverse literary works during the Georgian era. His most famous novel, The Vicar of Wakefield, and plays like She Stoops to Conquer, were widely popular in 18th-century Great Britain. Goldsmith's close friendship with Samuel Johnson led to his expansion into political writings, making their collaboration one of the most significant in English letters. Despite a tumultuous personal life marked by debt and gambling, Goldsmith's contributions to literature and poetry remain influential today.
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