Surname Estep - Meaning and Origin
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Decoding the Estep Surname: Exciting Insights from My iGENEA DNA Test
Unveiling the origins of the surname "Estep" through my iGENEA DNA test enthralled me. The results traced back the Estep lineage to Western Europe, primarily Iberia, the British Isles, and Scandinavia. Intriguingly, it showed a significant mix of Celtic and Viking genes, with a smaller percentage linked with Ashkenazi Jewish populations. The insights brought forth by the iGENEA DNA test survey paint an enriching picture of my genetic heritage.
H. Estep
read moreEstep: What does the surname Estep mean?
The last name Estep is of English origins and is primarily considered a topographic surname. The meaning of the name cannot be precisely determined as there are various interpretations based on different historico-cultural contexts. Some suggest that this name is derived from the Old English word 'east' and 'stepp', meaning a step towards the East, indicating a family who resided or originated from that direction. Another interpretation is that it could have originated from a place called Easthope, a parish in the county of Salop. Surnames were often formed from the names of places where families resided. The name Estep began appearing from the 13th century in records. It's also seen in various forms such as Esthope, Eastop, Estop, Eystop, and others throughout history. However, like with all surnames, it has definitely evolved and changed over time as it was passed down through various generations. Given the myriad interpretations, the definitive meaning and origin of the surname Estep remain largely speculative without concrete genealogical proof.
Order DNA origin analysisEstep: Where does the name Estep come from?
The surname Estep is English in origin and was first found in Kent county (in the southeastern part of England) during the medieval period. The name is considered a topographic surname — a type of surname given to someone based on a geographical feature or landscape peculiar to their residence. It's believed to be derived from the old English word "stepe" meaning "step" or "steppes," indicating someone who lived near a steep place. After centuries of family migrations, the surname has now become widespread across different continents, particularly in Europe and North America.
Today, the surname Estep is most commonly found in the United States, predominant in states such as West Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee. It’s also somewhat common in Canada. The surname's distribution across the globe, however, remains sparse and is not markedly prevalent in any particular country outside these areas.
Variations of the surname Estep
The surname Estep is of English origin, most likely derived from names of places such as Easthope in Shropshire and Eastop near Petersfield. It began to be used as a surname since the medieval period. Over time and space, many variations of Estep have come up due to various reasons such as translation between multiple languages, dialectical differences, and clerical errors.
Some common variants and alternate spellings for the surname Estep might include Eastep, Eastepe, Estop, Estepp, Eastop, Easthope, Easthopp, Eastepp, Estoppe, Eastopp, and Esteppa, to name a few.
Every family's history is a unique journey and particular variations can be found based on geography and record-keeping practices at the time. Note that despite differences in spelling, all of these surnames are likely branches of the same ancestral tree. The complex web of migration, colonization, and local customs, often reflected in these phonetic variations, would have contributed to the diverse spellings of the same original surname.
As with any surname, it's interesting to trace your family's specific lineage to determine which variations may apply to your unique family history.
It is always recommended to do more in-depth genealogical research to confirm the exact ancestry and variations of the surname.
Famous people with the name Estep
- Maggie Estep: An American writer and spoken word artist who was a prominent figure in the 1990s slam poetry movement.
- Myra Estep: She was a mathematician and was one of the first ten women elected as a fellow of American Association for the Advancement of Science.
- Samuel Estep: A former American football defensive tackle who played for Baltimore Colts in the National Football League.
- Jennifer Estep: A recognized American author of urban fantasy and paranormal romance novels, known for her "Elemental Assassin" series.
- Paul A. Estep: A former politician in the American state of Virginia who served in the House of Delegates.
- Randy Estep: A professional baseball player who played for the California Angels and Baltimore Orioles.
- Shannon Estep: A fitness instructor known for her various fitness videos. Please note, some of these individuals may not be overwhelmingly famous, but they have gained recognition within their respective fields or industries.