What is the origin of the last name Thorpe?
Countries of origin for the last name Thorpe
The last name Thorpe is of English origin. It is a locational surname derived from the Old Norse word “thorp,” which means “village” or “hamlet.” The name was used to identify someone who lived in or near a village. The spelling variations of Thorpe include Thorp, Thurp, and Turp.
The earliest recorded instance of the surname Thorpe dates back to the 11th century in Yorkshire, England. It is believed that the name originated in the Norse settlements of the region during the Viking Age. The popularity of the name spread throughout England, and it can be found in various regions such as Lincolnshire, Norfolk, and Suffolk.
Throughout history, individuals carrying the last name Thorpe have been involved in various aspects of society. One notable example is Jim Thorpe, an American athlete who won gold medals in the pentathlon and decathlon at the 1912 Olympic Games. He is considered one of the greatest athletes of all time.
The surname Thorpe is not very common in the United States. According to available data, it ranks as the 4,700th most popular surname in the country. Individuals with the last name Thorpe can be found in different states, with larger concentrations in California, Texas, and Florida.
The meaning of the last name Thorpe is closely tied to the concept of community and settlement. It reflects the historical importance of villages and hamlets in England and the significance of ancestral connections to specific locations. The name evokes a sense of belonging and a shared heritage.
While the available information provides valuable insights into the origins and meaning of the last name Thorpe, there are still unanswered questions. Further research could potentially uncover additional details about specific branches of the Thorpe family and their contributions to society.
Interesting facts about the last name Thorpe
- The surname Thorpe is of English origin.
- It is derived from the Old English word “þorp” or “þrop”, which means a small village or hamlet.
- The variations of the surname include Thorp, Throop, and Troop.
- The name Thorpe was originally used to identify someone who lived in or near a village.
- Thorpe is a relatively common surname in England.
- There are several places in England with the name “Thorpe”, such as Thorpe Astley, Thorpe Malsor, and Thorpe-on-the-Hill, which likely contributed to the prevalence of this surname.
- In the Domesday Book, a survey of England ordered by William the Conqueror in 1086, many places with the name Thorpe were listed, indicating its early usage.
- Notable individuals with the surname Thorpe include Jim Thorpe, an American athlete who won Olympic gold medals in both the pentathlon and decathlon in 1912, and Billy Thorpe, an Australian rock musician.
- The Thorpe Society is an organization dedicated to preserving the heritage and history of the surname and its variants.