Surname Richard - Meaning and Origin
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Discovering my authentic connection to the Richard surname through an iGENEA DNA test transformed my relationship with my family heritage. With new insights into my lineage, I developed a renewed appreciation for my family traditions and the role I play in perpetuating them. The knowledge of my descent from an ancient European lineage has enriched my sense of self and enhanced my view on the Richard surname.
F. Richard
read moreRichard: What does the surname Richard mean?
The surname Richard is of old Germanic origin, and it means "ruler" or "king". It is derived from two elements – "ric," meaning “ruler” or “king,” and "hard," which means “strong” or “brave.” Hence, the entire surname Richard translates to “brave ruler” or “strong king”. This name was popularized throughout Europe during the Middle Ages due to the fame of Richard the Lionheart, King of England. However, it has early roots dating back to the pre-7th century. Aside from being a surname, Richard is also commonly used as a male given name. Its popularity as a given name, especially within English-speaking countries, has led to its widespread use as a surname. Variants of the surname Richard exist in multiple cultures, including Richards, Richardson, and Ricardo.
Order DNA origin analysisRichard: Where does the name Richard come from?
The last name Richard is quite common around the world today. It is popular in North America, Europe, and Africa. In the United States, it is the 33rd most common surname, while it ranks 7th in France and 10th in Canada.
The origin of Richard is believed to be derived from Old French and German sources. In Old French, the name originally meant “powerful and brave leader”. The German version translates to “peaceful ruler”.
Today, the last name Richard is most popular in the United States. It is widely found throughout the country, ranging from states such as New York, Texas, California, and Pennsylvania. It also appears in New England and the southeastern United States.
In Europe, the last name Richard is also quite popular. It is especially prominent in France, an area where the name originates. Richard also appears extensively in the British Isles, with the highest prevalence in England.
Due to the vast presence of the surname Richard around the world, it can be said it is quite common today. The name is a sign of strength, honor, and peace, a source of pride for many with that name.
Variations of the surname Richard
Variants, spellings and surnames for Richard can be found in many languages and cultures, but all are derived from the same origin. Richard is derived from the Old German “RIC-hard”, meaning “powerful ruler” or “strong leader”. The German pronunciation is “REEK-hard” and this is how it appears in English.
Variants and spellings of the name Richard include Riccardo (Italian), Riocard (Irish and Scottish Gaelic), Ricard (Catalan), Rikard (Swedish and Norwegian), Rikhard (Finnish), Ryszard (Polish), Artois (French), and Riquier (Provencal).
Surnames for Richard include Richardson, Richards, Richardson, Ricci, Rickard, Ricketts, and Richardsen. Richard is also commonly found as a middle name and as the root of a hyphenated name, e.g. “Jean-Richard”.
Richard was the name borne by three English kings, including Richard the Lionheart, the symbol of medieval chivalry. Today, the name is still popular, and many famous people in fields such as politics, music and sports bear this surname. From Sacha Baron Cohen to Richard Sherman, this surname has touched many lives and is sure to continue to inspire in the future.
Famous people with the name Richard
- Richard Gere: American actor, humanitarian, and musician.
- Richard Branson: British business magnate, investor, author and philanthropist.
- Richard Dreyfuss: American actor and comedian.
- Richard Pryor: American comedian, actor, and writer.
- Richard Burton: Welsh actor who was noted for his performances in both British and American films.
- Richard Nixon: American politician, author, and 37th President of the United States.
- Richard Attenborough: British actor, filmmaker, entrepreneur, and politician.
- Richard Ayoade: British comedian, actor, writer, director, and television presenter.
- Richard Hammond: British presenter, writer, and motor enthusiast best known for co-hosting the BBC Two car programme Top Gear.
- Richard Wilkins: Australian media personality and entertainment editor for the Nine Network.