Reeves Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Reeves come from? What does the surname Reeves mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Reeves and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Reeves Origin: What does the last name Reeves mean?
The surname Reeves is of English origin, first appearing in records from England around the early 15th century. It is derived from the Old English term "reeve," which referred to a local official or manager. The name remained closely associated with England through the 16th century, but by the 17th century, there was a notable increase in Reeves family records in the United States, indicating a shift in the primary location linked to this surname. Today, the Reeves surname is most commonly found in the United States, reflecting its global spread over the centuries.
YourRoots data confirms the presence of the Reeves surname in the United Kingdom since the 15th century, with a significant increase in records in the United States by the 17th century. The surname has since expanded to various regions worldwide, showcasing its global reach. From its origins as a name associated with local officials in England, the Reeves surname has evolved and continues to be prevalent in different countries, highlighting its rich history and widespread distribution.
Reeves Last Name History: Where did the last name Reeves come from?
Origin of Reeves Surname: Where does the last name Reeves originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Reeves first appeared in records from England, United Kingdom around the early 15th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact “Reeves” spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Reeves: What does the Reeves surname history look like in the early days?
The “Reeves” surname remained strongly associated with England, United Kingdom from the 15th through the 16th century. However, by the 17th century, YourRoots data shows a significant increase in the volume of Reeves family records in the United States, indicating a shift in the primary location associated with this surname.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Reeves surname today?
By the 17th century, the volume of records with the Reeves surname in the United States surpassed that in the United Kingdom, a trend that continued into the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, the “Reeves” surname is most commonly found in the United States, according to YourRoots data. However, it is also present in various other regions worldwide, reflecting its global spread over the centuries.
Explore Reeves last name heritage and Reeves surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Reeves Surame?
Keanu Reeves
Keanu Charles Reeves (September 2, 1964 - ) is a Canadian actor and musician known for his leading roles in action films spanning four decades. He gained fame with movies like "The Matrix" series, "John Wick," and "Speed." Reeves is also a philanthropist, musician in the band Dogstar, and co-writer of the BRZRKR franchise. With a diverse heritage including Native Hawaiian, Chinese, English, and Portuguese roots, Reeves has become one of the most influential actors of the 21st century, receiving accolades for his performances and contributions to the entertainment industry.
Rachel Reeves
Rachel Jane Reeves (Feb 13, 1979 - ) is a British politician serving as Chancellor of the Exchequer since July 2024. She has been a Member of Parliament for Leeds West and Pudsey since 2010, advocating for modern supply-side economics and proposing to nationalize railways. Reeves studied at the University of Oxford and the London School of Economics before working at the Bank of England and HBOS. She made history as the first woman Chancellor of the Exchequer in over 800 years, introducing significant tax rises and implementing economic reforms.
Bass Reeves
Bass Reeves (July 1838 – January 12, 1910) was a legendary deputy U.S. Marshal known for his fearless pursuit of outlaws in the dangerous Indian Territory. Born a slave, he later escaped and became a skilled tracker, speaking multiple Native American languages. Reeves made over 4,000 arrests and killed twenty men in the line of duty. Immortalized in TV shows, films, and books, he was a true frontier hero who faced some of the most ruthless criminals of his time.
George Reeves
George Keefer Brewer (January 5, 1914 – June 16, 1959) was an American actor best known for portraying Clark Kent/Superman in the television series Adventures of Superman (1952–1958). His death at age 45 remains controversial, with some speculating foul play. Born in Iowa as George Keefer Brewer, he later took on the name George Reeves after being adopted by his stepfather. Reeves had a diverse acting career, appearing in films like Gone with the Wind and So Proudly We Hail! before enlisting in the U.S. Army during World War II. Despite facing challenges in Hollywood, he left a lasting legacy as the Man of Steel on TV.
Matt Reeves
Matt Reeves (April 27, 1966 - ) is an American filmmaker known for his work on popular projects like "Cloverfield," "Dawn of the Planet of the Apes," and "The Batman." Reeves started his career in television, co-creating the show "Felicity" with J. J. Abrams. He gained international recognition for his unique storytelling and directing style, leading him to work on various successful film franchises. With a background in screenwriting and a knack for creating compelling narratives, Matt Reeves continues to make his mark in the entertainment industry.
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