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Russell Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning

Where did the surname Russell come from? What does the surname Russell mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Russell and family migration on YourRoots Map.


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Surname Russell Origin: What does the last name Russell mean?

The surname Russell has a rich history with disputed origins. Early genealogists believed it was derived from the toponymic surname 'de Rosel' or 'du Rozel', linked to Anglo-Norman landholders from Rosel, Normandy. However, J. Horace Round proposed an alternative origin, suggesting that the surname Russell actually came from the Anglo-Norman nickname rus[s]el, given to men with red hair. This nickname was a diminutive of the Norman-French rus, meaning 'red', and was also used to refer to the red fox. Surname dictionaries have since favored this nickname-based origin, with the English name Rufus also meaning "red haired." The Russell surname has historical ties to England, Scotland, and France, with variations such as Rosel, Rousel, Roussel, Russel, and Rossell.

YourRoots data supports the presence of the Russell surname in the United Kingdom since the early 11th century, with a notable increase in records in the United States from the 16th century onwards. The surname Russell has a global presence, with significant numbers in the United States, the United Kingdom, and various other countries. The name has transcended borders and cultures, reflecting a diverse and widespread legacy. Despite the disagreements on its exact origins, the Russell surname continues to be prominent and recognizable in contemporary society, embodying a blend of historical lineage and modern identity.

Russell Last Name History: Where did the last name Russell come from?

Origin of Russell Surname: Where does the last name Russell originate from?

According to YourRoots data, the surname Russell first appeared in records from the United Kingdom around the early 11th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact ‚Äö"Russell" spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.

History of the Last Name Russell: What does the Russell surname history look like in the early days?

The ‚Äö"Russell" surname remained closely associated with the United Kingdom from the 11th through the 15th century. YourRoots data shows a significant increase in the frequency of family records with the Russell surname in the United States starting from the 16th century.

Global Spread: Where can we find the Russell surname today?

By the 16th century, the volume of records with the Russell surname in the United States began to surpass that of the United Kingdom. This trend continued into the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. Today, the ‚Äö"Russell" surname is prominent in the United States, but also appears in a variety of other countries, reflecting its global spread.


Explore Russell last name heritage and Russell surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Russell surname origin, history, meaning based on YourRoots Map dataVIEW THE ORIGIN OF SURNAME RUSSELL

Famous People With Russell Surame?

  • YourRoots Map_Surname_Famous People_Kurt Russell

    Kurt Russell

    Kurt Vogel Russell (born Mar 17, 1951) is an American actor known for his versatile roles in action adventures, science-fiction, westerns, and more. He starred in iconic films like "Escape from New York," "Tombstone," and "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2." Russell's career spans from child acting in Disney productions to collaborations with renowned directors like John Carpenter and Quentin Tarantino. With nominations for prestigious awards like the Primetime Emmy and Golden Globe, he continues to captivate audiences in franchises like the Fast & Furious series and the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

  • YourRoots Map_Surname_Famous People_Wyatt Russell

    Wyatt Russell

    Wyatt Hawn Russell (born Jul 10, 1986) is an American actor known for his roles in Marvel's The Falcon and the Winter Soldier and Overlord. The son of Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn, Wyatt also played college ice hockey before transitioning to acting. He starred in various films like 22 Jump Street and Love and Honor, showcasing his versatile talent. With upcoming projects like Thunderbolts and Disclosure, Wyatt continues to make his mark in Hollywood alongside his successful family members.

  • YourRoots Map_Surname_Famous People_Keri Russell

    Keri Russell

    Keri Lynn Russell (born Mar 23, 1976) is an American actress known for her roles in popular TV series like Felicity and The Americans. She has won a Golden Globe Award and received multiple Emmy nominations for her performances. Russell has also appeared in a variety of films, including Dawn of the Planet of the Apes and Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. Additionally, she has showcased her talent on stage in off-Broadway productions. With a successful career spanning decades, Russell continues to captivate audiences with her versatile acting skills.

  • YourRoots Map_Surname_Famous People_Keri Russell

    Bertrand Russell

    Bertrand Arthur William Russell (May 18, 1872 – February 2, 1970) was a British philosopher, mathematician, and public intellectual. He was a key figure in the development of analytic philosophy and logic, co-writing the influential book Principia Mathematica. Russell was also a vocal pacifist, advocating for humanitarian ideals and freedom of thought. He received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1950 for his impactful writings. Despite his initial support for appeasement against Nazi Germany, Russell later changed his views on war and became a staunch advocate for nuclear disarmament. His legacy as a thinker and activist continues to inspire generations.

  • YourRoots Map_Surname_Famous People_Keri Russell

    Leon Russell

    Leon Russell (Claude Russell Bridges; April 2, 1942 – November 13, 2016) was an influential American musician and songwriter known for his versatile talents across various music genres. He worked with renowned artists, received Grammy Awards, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Russell's iconic songs have been recorded by numerous artists, showcasing his enduring impact on the music industry. Despite facing physical challenges, he overcame them to become a legendary figure in the world of music.

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