English Last Names

Selby, a rarely heard British surname, feels sleeker and more distinctive than Shelby. Todd Selby, known primarily by his last name, is a hip photographer of interiors.

Hearst is a masculine name of English origin, derived from an Anglo-Saxon surname that originally referred to a wooded hill or 'hurst.' Most famously associated with the American newspaper publishing family, particularly William Randolph Hearst, the name carries connotations of wealth, influence, and American heritage. As a given name, Hearst remains exceptionally rare, appealing to parents seeking a distinctive name with strong historical and cultural associations. The name has a commanding, crisp sound with its single syllable and firm ending. While some may view it as primarily connected to the famous publishing dynasty, others appreciate its understated elegance and connection to the natural world through its original meaning of a wooded elevation.

Epes is often considered a variation of the surname Epps, which typically refers to the aspen tree, from the Old English word æpse. Some branches of Epes may have derived from the Middle English given name Eppe — Eoppa in Old English — from a root meaning "red". It has also been proposed the Eppe came from the Old Norse Øpi, meaning "cry out" or "shriek".

Up-and-coming surname name that may evoke thoughts of ballet dancer Misty Copeland or one of the many towns called Copeland.

Holliday is a feminine given name derived from the English surname meaning 'one who dwells near a holy day.' Originally a surname used to identify someone who was born during a religious festival or holiday, it has transitioned into occasional use as a first name. The spelling with two 'l's adds a distinctive touch compared to the standard 'Holiday' form. This name carries a naturally festive, joyful association and conveys a sense of celebration. Though relatively uncommon as a first name, it gained some recognition through connections to the historical figure Doc Holliday. It appeals to parents seeking an uncommon name with positive, uplifting connotations.

Somewhat dashing surname, but with serious teasing potential.

With Marlowe, Harlowe, Milo, and Arlo in the charts, this occupational surname with its strong -o ending might hold appeal. Derived from ferrum meaning "iron" or "horseshoe", it has a solid yet adventurous feel. Actress Mia Farrow is a notable holder of the surname,

Matthews is primarily known as an Anglo-Saxon surname derived from the given name Matthew, which comes from the Hebrew name Matityahu, meaning "gift of Yahweh" or "gift of God." As a first name, Matthews is uncommon but represents a trend of using traditional surnames as given names. It carries a formal, distinguished quality with its plural form distinguishing it from the more common Matthew. The name has biblical associations through the apostle Matthew and projects reliability and tradition. While not ranked among popular first names in most countries, Matthews has occasional usage, particularly in families looking to honor ancestors with the Matthews surname or seeking a slightly distinctive variation on Matthew.

A dated fifties surname name that led to the nickname SAndy.

Richards is primarily recognized as an English surname derived from the Germanic personal name Richard, combining elements meaning "powerful" and "brave ruler." As a first name, Richards is uncommon, representing either a patronymic usage or a modern variation of the classic Richard. The name Richard itself has been popular throughout European history, borne by English kings, artists, and leaders. The addition of the final 's' may reflect a family naming tradition or desire to distinguish the name from the more common Richard. While rare as a first name, Richards maintains the strong, authoritative qualities of its root name. Its unusual status as a first name might appeal to parents seeking a traditional-sounding masculine name with a subtle difference from more common classics.

Reality TV star Raven Gates gave her on-trend s-ending surname to her son, named Gates Zev. Gates joins an impressive lineup of celebrity babies with similar names, including Hillary Duff's Banks and Emma Roberts' Rhodes. Gates is also famously the surname of Bill Gates, founder of Microsoft.

Before there was esteemed actress Anne Hathaway, there was Anne Hathaway, wife of Shakespeare — the former being named after the latter.

If you prefer the woods to the ocean, you'll want to name your son (or daughter) Beech instead of Beach.

Surname choice that could be used to honor the playwright Lanford Wilson.

Darling has history as an English surname, but it would most likely be read as a quirky and loving word name, a la Sweetheart or Honey.

The final s turns a nature name into a Waspy surname.

Classy-sounding surname name usually bypassed in favor of the simpler Landon.

Gently pleasant English family name long associated with 60-Minuteman Morley Safer.

Also an English surname, Sender derives from Alexander and has an attractive modern sound. Though given to only a handful of baby boys per year, it nevertheless is in step with the brotherhood of er-ending choices fashionable today.

A simple, self-possessed, somewhat serious surname, which might work better as a middle.