What is the origin of the last name Chase?
Countries of origin for the last name Chase
The last name Chase has English origins and is primarily a surname rather than a given name. It is believed to have originated from the Middle English word “chase,” which referred to hunting grounds or an area of land used for game hunting. The name is associated with the occupation of a “chaser,” which referred to someone involved in hunting or pursuing game.
The surname Chase is relatively common, ranking 375th in the United States according to the 2010 Census. It is most prevalent in the states of Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. The popularity of the name may be attributed to its association with the English word “chase,” which has connotations of adventure and pursuit.
The Chase family can trace its lineage back to England, where the name first emerged. The earliest recorded instance of the surname can be found in the Domesday Book of 1086, a comprehensive survey of England and Wales commissioned by William the Conqueror. The book reveals the presence of a Roger de Cais in Devonshire, indicating that the name has been in use for over nine centuries.
Notable individuals with the last name Chase include Salmon P. Chase, a prominent American politician who served as the Chief Justice of the United States; Chevy Chase, a renowned American actor and comedian; and Emma Chase, a bestselling American author. These individuals have contributed to the recognition and prominence of the surname in various fields.
It is worth noting that surname origins and meanings are often subject to speculation and variation. Different sources may provide conflicting information, and definitive conclusions can be challenging to reach. Despite the extensive research and available records, the true origin and meaning of the Chase surname may never be fully uncovered. This tantalizing uncertainty keeps the investigation of its genealogical and etymological nuances ongoing and engenders a sense of intrigue for those delving into their family history.
Interesting facts about the last name Chase
- The surname Chase is of English origin.
- It is derived from the Middle English word “chace,” meaning “to hunt or chase.”
- The name Chase was initially used as an occupational surname for someone who was a huntsman or gamekeeper.
- The name became hereditary and was passed down through generations.
- The surname Chase can be found in various spellings, including Chace and Chayse.
- Notable bearers of the surname Chase include Salmon P. Chase, a U.S. Treasury Secretary under President Abraham Lincoln, and Chevy Chase, an American actor and comedian.
- The Chase family has deep roots in New England, with early settlers of the name arriving in Massachusetts in the 17th century.
- By the 19th century, the surname Chase had spread throughout the United States.
- Chase is a relatively common surname in English-speaking countries.
- The popularity of the surname Chase may also be partly due to its association with the word “chase,” which conveys a sense of pursuit and adventure.
Name Rank
#649
There are around 52481 people with the last name Chase in the US