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.
Rouse, Russel, Russler
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 ‚"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 ‚"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 ‚"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

Famous People With Russell Surame?
Kurt Russell
Kurt Vogel Russell (March 17, 1951 - ) is a versatile American actor known for his roles in various genres including action adventures, science-fiction, and westerns. He has collaborated with renowned filmmakers like John Carpenter and Quentin Tarantino, appearing in franchises like Fast & Furious and the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
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. He also played college ice hockey before pursuing a career in acting. Russell co-founded Lake Hour, a premium cocktail brand, in 2023.
Keri Russell
Keri Lynn Russell (born Mar 23, 1976) is an American actress known for her roles in hit TV series like "Felicity" and "The Americans." She has also appeared in films like "Waitress" and "Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker." Russell has received critical acclaim and awards for her performances.
Leon Russell
Leon Russell (Claude Russell Bridges) (Apr 2, 1942 - Nov 13, 2016) was a legendary American musician and songwriter known for his diverse musical talents. He collaborated with big names like Elton John and recorded hits like "Tight Rope" and "Lady Blue". Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Russell's influence on the music industry is undeniable.
Jane Russell
Ernestine Jane Geraldine Russell (June 21, 1921 - February 28, 2011) was an iconic American actress, model, and singer known for her beauty and charisma. She was a leading Hollywood sex symbol in the 1940s and 1950s, starring in over 20 films and receiving accolades for her achievements in the industry.
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