Craig
What is the origin of the last name Craig?
Meaning and origin
The last name Craig originates from Scotland and Ireland, derived from the Gaelic word "creag," meaning "rock" or "crag." It is a topographical surname typically given to those who lived near rocky terrain or on a cliffside. The name also has variations such as Crage, Cragg, and Craigie, and has been found in historical records dating back to the 12th century.
The longer story
The last name "Craig" has a number of interesting historical and etymological facts associated with it. As an experienced writer specializing in genealogy, name etymology, and historical research, I have gathered the following information about the last name "Craig" from various sources available on the internet.
This connection to the landscape is a common characteristic of many Scottish surnames.
The use of surnames in Scotland became more prevalent during the 12th and 13th centuries, as feudal systems were established. Over time, these surnames evolved and were passed down through generations, becoming established family names.
Surname origins are rarely settled: one spelling can have several sources, and families often took a name for reasons nobody wrote down. Check it against the sources below before you rely on it.
#332
Craig was the 332nd most common surname in the 2010 US Census, with 92,507 people, about 31 in every 100,000.
Who carries it
Surnames like Craig
Names it is linked with, then names with the same origin and a similar standing.
Check the sources
- Forebears: where Craig is found around the world
- The Internet Surname Database: a second opinion on the origin
- US Census Bureau: the 2010 surname figures used here
For a name you are serious about, compare the dictionaries: Reaney and Wilson, A Dictionary of English Surnames; Hanks, Dictionary of American Family Names.