A Dictionary of English Surnames

by P.H. Reaney, David Hey, R.M. Wilson

A Dictionary of English Surnames is an authoritative and enlightening guide to the origins of English surnames and how they developed over the centuries. A comprehensive survey of this popular subject, it provides useful information on 16,000 surnames, giving full sources and dates. Different
forms of names are also cross-referenced for ease of use. A valuable historical and linguistic introduction to the subject is included, along with a new appendix on how to trace the origin of a family name.

Genres: Reference, Nonfiction, Language, History

590 pages, Paperback

First published September 26, 1991

Reviews

[[ J o ] · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is such a wonderful reference book to have if you are any kind of writer. It chronicles modern English surnames and shows the historical evolution of them. Could be great for anyone also looking to look in to their family history, but as a whole the best use of it is either as a resource of English surnames for your characters, or a just a lovely dip in to the vast and mind-boggling thing that is English history.

Extremely easy to use: just like a dictionary, as one would expect. I think it is excellent considering its simplicity.

[Alison · Rating 4 out of 5]

A solid, and useful dictionary of surnames but only English ones.

May be useful for those doing genealogical or local history research.

Laid out as you might expect, though in this volume some may find the text a little small.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fabulous reference for writers who are looking for inspiration when naming characters.