Surname Leppard - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'L'
Leppard: What does the surname Leppard mean?
The last name Leppard is of English origin, derived from the old French word for leopard, 'lepard.' It is believed to have been a nickname type of surname, possibly referencing the attributes of a leopard like strength and speed or implying a warrior who wore leopard skin in battle. Sometimes surnames were also professional markers, indicating that the person might have been a keeper of leopards or had some dealings with these animals. Alternately, it could have come from a place that had leopards or from a house with the symbol of a leopard. Like most surnames, the meaning has evolved over time and can vary based on geographic location, family history, and cultural differences. It is most commonly found in English-speaking countries.
Order DNA origin analysisLeppard: Where does the name Leppard come from?
The surname Leppard is of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English term "Leopard," which referred to someone who was fierce or swift as a leopard. This could be either a nickname or an occupational name for a fast runner or messenger. The surname first emerged in the counties of Surrey and Sussex in England.
Records of the surname Leppard, variant forms include Lepperd, Leaper, and Lepard, and can be traced back to the 13th century. A Roger le Leper was registered in the "Subsidy Rolls of Sussex" dated around 1296, and a John Leppard in the "Pipe Rolls of Gloucestershire" in the year 1309.
Although Leppard is not a widespread surname, you may find several people with the Leppard surname primarily in the United Kingdom, along with the United States and some parts of Canada and Australia. Please note that variations of the surname may be more or less common in given countries.
Variations of the surname Leppard
The surname Leppard is of English origin and has several variations in spelling across different cultures and societies. Some of the most common variants include Leppert, Lipard, Leaper, Leper, Lepard, Lippert, Lipperd, Leippert, Lipaerd, Leopard, and Leopardi.
These spelling variants often arise due to changes in the anglicization of the family name, geographic relocation, or simple misspellings in historical records. The name Leppard could have originally been an occupational name given to a keeper of lepers or associated with a house that cared for lepers, and has evolved into various forms over time.
Similar sounding surnames such as Lepper and Leaper might have different origins though. For example, Leaper could be an occupational name for a dancer or runner. It is also important to note that similar sounding surnames do not always assure common origin.
As for the surnames from other countries, the Italian surname Leopardi stands out. While it sounded similar, it's important to make comprehensive research in terms of lineage and family history to determine whether these names share the same origin or not.
The variants of a surname can be multiple and it would be advisable to consult genealogy resources or a professional genealogist for specific and accurate information on one's lineage.
Famous people with the name Leppard
- Joe Elliott: founder and lead singer of the band Def Leppard.
- Phil Collen: lead guitarist of the band Def Leppard.
- Vivian Campbell: rhythm guitarist for Def Leppard.
- Rick Savage: bassist for Def Leppard who also contributes to lead and backing vocals.
- Rick Allen: drummer for Def Leppard.
- Steve Leppard: British sound engineer and record producer.
- Jeffrey Leppard: British composer and orchestrator for film and television.
- Mark Leppard: British technology journalist and television presenter.
- Michael Leppard: British actor, director, and writer.
- James Leppard: British documentary producer, director, and editor.
- Laura Leppard: American vocalist, songwriter, and recording artist.
- Gillian Leppard: British director, composer, and editor.
- Alex Leppard: British painter, illustrator, and printmaker.
- Fred Leppard: British film editor, producer, and director.
- Julian Leppard: British film composer and conductor.
- Graham Leppard: British art director for films.
- Matt Leppard: British lighting designer for theatre, tv, and media.
- Mark ‘Bomber’ Leppard: British builder, singer, and presenter.
- Julie Leppard: British costume designer for theatre and tv.
- Ryan Leppard: American singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist.