Surname Moumford - Meaning and Origin
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Moumford: What does the surname Moumford mean?
The surname Moumford is likely a variation of the English surname Mumford, which has old Norman origins. The name is derived from the Old English words "mun" meaning "a mouth" and "ford" meaning "a shallow crossing in a river or stream." Therefore, the meaning of the name could be pointed to "the Ford at the Rivermouth" suggesting a geographical location. Over centuries, names slightly transform their spellings and it is believed that Moumford is a derivation from Mumford. However, every spelling of a surname has its own history and may have originated from different ancestors. It's also important to note that surnames, especially ones less common like Moumford, can have multiple origins and interpretations. To trace the accurate meaning and origin of the surname 'Moumford', a comprehensive genealogical investigation would be necessary.
Order DNA origin analysisMoumford: Where does the name Moumford come from?
The surname Moumford is most commonly found in the United Kingdom, specifically in England. In the 1881 census, it was most prevalent in the county of Warwickshire, with 77 recorded occurrances at that time. According to surname distribution records, it is also present in small numbers in Scotland, Wales, and Ireland.
In the modern day, Moumford is still most commonly found in England, having a high concentration around Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, and a lower concentration in Warwickshire. There are also reported occurrances around London and Surrey.
Further afield, the surname can also be found scattered across the United States, Canada, Australia, and parts of Europe.
It is one of the rarer surnames, today it is estimated that fewer than 300 people in the United Kingdom bear the surname Moumford. Those that do are believed to be mainly descended from families originating in England centuries ago.
Variations of the surname Moumford
The Moumford surname has several variants, spellings, and even surnames of the same origin. These include Monford, Monfort, Momford, Momfort, Munford, Munfort, Mumford, and Mumfort. The origins of this surname remain unclear, but most likely date back to the Anglo-Saxon tribes who populated Britain during the migration period of the Dark Ages (approximately 400-1100 AD).
The earliest known recorded spelling of the surname was that of Johannes Moumford, found on the tax rolls of Yorkshire in 1379. It is believed that the Moumford surname is ultimately derived from an Old English personal name, Mundbeorht - which is formed from the elements mund (protection) and beorht (bright).
Various other variants of the surname can be found in records from all over the British Isles throughout the medieval and early modern period, including Monfort, Mumfort, Munford, and Momfort. The Moumford name may also be found as variants of other surnames, such as the Irish McMonna and McMomna, as well as the Scottish McMonford and McMomford.
In the United States, the Moumford surname is found mainly in the states of Virginia, Pennsylvania and Ohio. The variety of spellings for this surname demonstrates that it was often changed over time and adapted to local customs, though the original meaning has often been retained.
Famous people with the name Moumford
- Emily Moundford: British actress and singer-songwriter, best known for her work in the British TV series ' Emmerdale '.
- Dominic Moundford: British actor who has starred in various films and television series such as "Merlin" and "Ripper Street".
- Philip Moundford: British film producer and director.
- Susan Moundford: British actress known for her role in the BBC television drama series, 'Call the Midwife'.
- Edward Moundford: British actor, best known for his roles in films such as "The Imitation Game" and "The Ides of March".
- Bernard Moundford: British actor and comedian, best known for his appearances in feature films such as "Dead Man Walking" and "My Best Friend's Wedding".
- Guy Moundford: British actor and comedian, best known for his work on the television series "Have I Got News for You".
- Richard Moundford: British actor and writer, best known for his roles in the HBO series "Game of Thrones" and BBC drama "Bodyguard".
- Simon Moundford: English actor and writer, known for his roles in "Doctor Who" and "15 Days".
- Christopher Moundford: American actor, best known for his roles in "Jurassic World" and "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them".