Surname Selfridge - Meaning and Origin
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Selfridge: What does the surname Selfridge mean?
The surname Selfridge is of English origin and derives from the Old English word ‘selfredge’. This was a term used to describe a person who lived on or was associated with a hill. In essence, one who lived on a "selfridge" was an inhabitant of a self-contained hillside settlement. During Medieval England, such settlements were often inhabited by people of lesser means who were seeking refuge from the troubles of the time.
The modern spelling of Selfridge is derived from the Old English name Leofric, which meant “beloved ruler”. From this legacy, the name can be translated as meaning “one who lives on a ridge or hill”. Over time, the spelling of the name has evolved into its modern form.
In some cases, the modern spelling of Selfridge may also be derived from the surname of Scots-Irish origin, Sylvridge. The origin of this name is thought to have derived from the Gaelic word ‘sol-reidge’, meaning “wooden ridge”.
Today, the surname Selfridge is associated with the very famous British Department Store, founded by Harry Gordon Selfridge in 1909. Selfridge was a successful American entrepreneur, credited with revolutionizing the shopping experience in Britain. His store and brand continue to inspire and provide quality goods and services to this day.
Order DNA origin analysisSelfridge: Where does the name Selfridge come from?
The last name Selfridge is most commonly found today in England. It is of Anglo-Saxon origin, first appearing in records from the 13th century. Selfridge is a habitational name, derived from 'Sylvards Rig', a district in the parish of Broomfield in Somerset. Some records also suggest that the first record of the name may be in Cheshire, England around 1285.
The name Selfridge is also found in Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and the United States. In Scotland, it is most common in Aberdeenshire and throughout the Lothians. It is also found in Ulster, Ireland.
In the United States, the surname Selfridge is most common in Florida, California, Illinois, and Michigan. It is also found in New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. Judging by the 2000 U.S. Census, the surname Selfridge is most densely populated in Michigan.
Overall, the last name Selfridge is scattered across England, Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and the United States. It is also a fairly uncommon name, with only 2,673 people bearing the name in the United States in 2000, according to the census.
Variations of the surname Selfridge
The surname Selfridge is an English surname which can take a variety of different spellings and forms. Most commonly, the name appears as Selfridge, Selridge, or Selfredge. Less frequent variations include Selferage, Selfrige, and Selfrage.
In some cases, Selfridge is also found spelled Selfrig, Selfridge, Selferidge, Selfrige, Sylridge, and Selferidge. All of these variations are ultimately derived from the same English name.
The earliest recorded instance of the surname Selfridge dates back to the 12th century in Dorset, England. Over the years, the name has spread out from Dorset to most parts of the British Isles. It has also been found in America as well as Australia and New Zealand.
Amongst the variant surnames, there are a few notable examples which are derived from the same old English name. For instance, the surnames Sellers and Sellars both ultimately derive from the same source. Similarly, the names Selway, Sulway, and Sullway are also variants of the name.
Today, the surname Selfridge is relatively uncommon but is still found in several English speaking countries. To sum up, the surname Selfridge is an old English name with several spelling variations and related surnames.
Famous people with the name Selfridge
- Harry Gordon Selfridge: An American-born British retail magnate who founded the London-based department store Selfridges.
- Oliver Selfridge: English artificial intelligence researcher and professor emeritus at MIT known for his work in machine perception and robotics.
- Madeleine Selfridge: Daughter of Harry Gordon Selfridge, and the philanthropist who was responsible for the construction of Cambridge's Baby Jesus Hospital.
- Emily Selfridge: British marchesa, socialite, and fashion icon. She was the eldest child of Harry Gordon Selfridge and Rose Buckingham.
- Arthur Selfridge Jr.: Son of Harry Gordon Selfridge, and the owner of Selfridge’s London department store from 1935 to 1958.
- Julia Melena Selfridge: Daughter of Harry Gordon Selfridge and Rose Buckingham.
- William Selfridge: British-born author, playwright, theater director, and producer.
- Diana Selfridge: Daughter of William Selfridge and wife of Duke Charles.
- Mary Selfridge: Daughter of William Selfridge and wife of Lord Lawrence.
- Grace Selfridge: Australian-born film and television actress.