Surname Redshaw - Meaning and Origin
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Redshaw: What does the surname Redshaw mean?
The surname Redshaw is of English origin and traces back to the medieval times. The name is topographic, referencing those who lived by a stretch of red woodland. The name is composed of two Old English elements: "read," meaning "red," and "sceaga" meaning "woodland," "copse," or "shaw." Therefore, the surname Redshaw might have originally referred to someone who lived near a wooded area that turns a reddish color in certain light or during specific seasons. Overall, like many surnames, Redshaw likely began as a geographical descriptor to help distinguish between individuals with the same first name in a given area. It has been variously spelled throughout history, with versions such as Redshawe and Ridshaw. Over centuries, it has been passed down through generations and spread across English-speaking countries around the world. A prominent individual with this surname was the English footballer Brian Redshaw. As with all surnames, each family with this name may have a somewhat unique meaning or origin story attached to it.
Order DNA origin analysisRedshaw: Where does the name Redshaw come from?
The last name Redshaw is found mainly in the United Kingdom. The most frequent use of the name appears to be in Preston and Blackpool, in Lancashire, which have been home to multiple generations of Redshaws. Other areas in England and Wales with a historical association to the Redshaw family include Cheshire, Staffordshire and Shropshire.
The name has also been found to have migrated to South Africa and Australia. While the occurance in these countries is not as frequent, it is likely the name originated in the same place.
Today, Redshaw remains more common in the UK than anywhere else, especially in the North West. Many Redshaws have held local public office in places like Preston and Blackpool throughout the decades. There are also numerous instances of Redshaw's having been knighted or decorated for service to the crown.
The modern day Redshaws tend to be mostly middle class, and many have become successful in various fields. Several Redshaws have achieved distinction in the entertainment industry, including author Raymond Redshaw and actor Edward Redshaw. Others have become entrepreneurs, and the name has been associated with several businesses in the UK.
Overall, it is clear that the Redshaw family has been an integral part of British society with a deep-seated history. In today’s globalized world, some Redshaws may have now moved abroad, but the presence of the family is still strongly felt in certain places in the UK.
Variations of the surname Redshaw
The surname Redshaw is English in origin, derived from a place name. Redshaw is a variation of Redshawe, which is derived from the Old English term “raed,” meaning “red,” and “sceaga,” meaning “wood.” Therefore, it originates from a place with a red wood. Variations and spellings of Redshaw include Redshawe, Redshawe, Reddish, Redish, Redush, Reedish, Readish, Redshear, Reddishaw and Reddieshaw.
Alternate forms of this surname include Redshaw-Fuller, Redshaw-Hernandez, Redshaw-Hale, Redshaw-Harris, Redshaw-Hauser, Redshaw-Heath, Redshaw-Herbert, Redshaw-Holden, Redshaw-Holman.
Other surnames of similar origin include Redvain, Redfern, Redmayne, Redkin, Redhill, Reedham, Redman, Redhead and Redder.
In Ireland, a variation of Redshaw is spelled Raedshaw and in Scotland, Readshall.
In Scotland, Redshaw is sometimes spelled as Reidshell.
There are also several derivative surnames derived from Redshaw, such as Redshaw-Hawkins, Redshaw-Martin, Redshaw-Saunders, Redshaw-Turner, Redshaw-Clarke, Redshaw-Baker and Redshaw-Williams.
Redshaw is also occasionally found spelled Reedschaw.
Famous people with the name Redshaw
- Sinead Redshaw: a professional British actress who is best known for her role as Heather in popular British soap opera Coronation Street. 2. Lee Ryder Redshaw: a professional Australian costume designer currently working on a feature film. 3. Mike Redshaw: a professional British actor and stand-up comedian. He is best known for his roles in BBC comedies such as The Office and Peep Show. 4. Gorden Redshaw: a professional British football player who is currently playing for Tranmere Rovers. 5. Harry Redshaw: a professional Canadian writer and illustrator who is best known for childen's books such as Mabel's Mystery and The Magical Menagerie. 6. John Redshaw: a professional British cinematographer who is best known for his work on films such as Sherlock Holmes and Thor. 7. Jonathan Redshaw: a professional British actor and director who has been in numerous films and television shows, such as Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix and more. 8. Steve Redshaw: a professional American singer, songwriter and musician. He is most well known for his popular song "Raise Your Glass". 9. Zach Redshaw: a professional American football player best known for playing for the New England Patriots.
- Jamie Redshaw: a professional British musician who is best known for his solo works as well as working with bands such as Coldplay and Oasis.