Surname map of ANDREW

Surname: Andrew

Origins of the surname Andrew

The surname Andrew has origins in both Scotland and England and is of patronymic origin. It derives from the given name Andrew, which itself comes from the Greek name “Andreas,” meaning “manly” or “brave.” The name Andrew was introduced into Britain through early Christian influence and became widely adopted during the medieval period, particularly due to the veneration of Saint Andrew, the patron saint of Scotland. Families began using Andrew as a surname to indicate “son of Andrew,” following the common practice of creating hereditary surnames based on a father’s given name. This practice was widespread across the British Isles, and the surname Andrew soon became established as a family identifier in various regions.

The meaning of the surname Andrew is therefore closely linked to its root in the given name, signifying “son of Andrew” or “descendant of Andrew.” The personal name carries connotations of bravery, strength, and manliness, reflecting both the Greek etymology and the cultural significance of Saint Andrew in medieval Britain. Over time, the surname Andrew came to denote a lineage of individuals associated with the virtues of courage and moral standing, qualities admired and often perpetuated within families who bore the name.

The variants of the surname Andrew include Andrews, Andreu, Andrus, and André. The addition of an “s” at the end, forming Andrews, is a common English patronymic convention, indicating “son of Andrew.” In Scotland, the surname sometimes remained simply Andrew, while in French-speaking regions, the variant André became common. These variations reflect linguistic, regional, and historical differences in spelling and pronunciation, but all maintain a connection to the original given name Andrew and its associated meaning.

Distribution of the surname Andrew

The surname Andrew is predominantly found in Scotland and northern England, with historical concentrations in counties such as Fife, Angus, and Lothian, where the cult of Saint Andrew was particularly influential. In England, the surname appears in Yorkshire, Lancashire, and other northern counties, often in areas where Christian naming traditions were strong. Over the centuries, families bearing the surname Andrew migrated throughout the British Isles, establishing a presence in urban and rural communities alike.

Internationally, the surname Andrew spread through emigration during the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. In the United States, Andrew and its variant Andrews were common among early settlers in New England and the Mid-Atlantic states, later spreading to other regions including the Midwest and South. In Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, the surname arrived with Scottish and English immigrants during colonial settlement, contributing to its modern-day presence across the English-speaking world. Today, Andrew remains a recognized surname in many countries, retaining its historical and cultural significance.

Famous people with the surname Andrew

Among the famous people who bear the surname Andrew, there are notable figures in sports, politics, and the arts. In sports, Hugh Andrew was a celebrated cricketer, while Tony Andrew gained recognition in football. In politics, John Andrew served as a prominent political figure in the United States. In the arts, Derek Andrew was known for his contributions to painting and illustration. Additionally, in literature and academia, various individuals named Andrew have contributed to scholarship and cultural preservation. These examples highlight the surname’s enduring legacy and its association with achievement and prominence across diverse fields.