Surname Kirkham - Meaning and Origin

Kirkham: What does the surname Kirkham mean?

The surname Kirkham is of Anglo-Saxon origin and is a locational name, deriving from places named Kirkham in Lancashire and North Yorkshire. The name is made up of the Old Norse elements "kirkja" (church) and "heimr" (homestead, village), thus it was used to signify individuals who lived in or near a "church village". It is said that locational surnames were typically given to the lord of the manor, and to those who migrated from their original habitation and settled in a new place, as a means of identification. Given its Norse origin, it points towards an influence from the period of Viking invasions and settlements in England. Therefore, the surname Kirkham can be seen as a cultural artefact, carrying traces of historical migrations, religious architecture, and local geography.

Kirkham: Where does the name Kirkham come from?

The surname Kirkham originates from the United Kingdom, specifically from England. It is a geographical name derived from several places named Kirkham, primarily located in Lancashire and North Yorkshire. The name's origins can be traced back to Old Norse and Old English, where 'kirk' means church and 'ham' signifies a settlement, hence translating to 'church settlement'. It is predominantly found in England, particularly in the regions where it originated. Kirkham as a surname has also been carried overseas to places like the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand due to British emigration. Today, it remains more commonly found in English-speaking countries, especially the UK, but can still be found dispersed around the world.

Variations of the surname Kirkham

The surname "Kirkham" is of English origin and derived from a place name. The place Kirkham, from where the surname originates, can be found in Lancashire and North Yorkshire. This locational surname literally means "home by the church," with "kirk" being Old Norse for "church" and "ham" meaning "homestead" or "village" in Old English.

Variations and alternate spellings of the surname Kirkham could include Kirkeham, Kirkam, Kirham, and Kerkham. They can be found in English records dating back to the Middle Ages. Different branches of the family may have adopted different spellings over time. As with many other surnames, the spelling may also have been influenced by factors such as regional accents and varying levels of literacy.

Despite its English origin, it's also possible that non-English language versions of the name could exist by translation in other countries, like "Churchhome" or "Churchhouse" in English speaking countries or “Kirchheim” in German speaking countries.

It is also common for surnames to be used as given names, so Kirkham may be seen as a first name as well. The surname Kirkham has many derivatives and has disseminated widely in the English-speaking world.

Famous people with the name Kirkham

• Kirsten Kirkham: Australian television presenter
• Emily Kirkham: American pro triathlete and swimmer
• Sarah Kirkham: Canadian rower and Olympic bronze medalist
• James Kirkham: British actor
• Dan Kirkham: American soccer player
• Charlie Kirkham: American rhythmic gymnast
• James Kirkham: British film and television director
• Charles Kirkham: American lawyer and politician
• Simon Kirkham: English painter and sculptor
• William Kirkham: American pianist and conductor

Other surnames

KirkhartKirkhouse