Surname Burnap - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'B'
Burnap: What does the surname Burnap mean?
The surname Burnap is of English origin and derived from a topographical name for someone who lived by a stream (Old English burne), combined with the suffix 'ap' to mean 'son of'. So by taking both parts into account, Burnap can translate to 'son of one who lives by the stream'. The name is quite rare and most prevalent in the United States, specifically in Massachusetts, according to available census data. As with many surnames with geographical or occupational origins, the exact meaning can be difficult to determine due to changes in language and migration over centuries. The Burnap family history can be traced back to the Middle Ages in England, and then later in America starting from the 17th century. It is important to note that surnames had an essential role in societies for tax and census purposes – they distinguished individuals with the same personal name, often describing something about them like their occupation, location, or father's name.
Order DNA origin analysisBurnap: Where does the name Burnap come from?
The surname Burnap is of English origin, deriving from a location "BURN" plus the suffix "-ap", which can be trace back to 13th century. This surname, like many English surnames, has undergone several changes through the generations such as 'Burnep', 'Burnope', and was finally settled as 'Burnap'. It is first recorded in the taxation records known as the 'Feet of Fines' for the county of Essex in the year 1288.
Although it has English origins, it's not highly common in England today. The Burnap surname is more prevalent in the United States, specifically in the states of Virginia and California. However, relative to the overall population, the surname Burnap is considered rather rare in these regions as well. This surname has spread marginally in other parts of the world through emigration but it still maintains its relative rarity outside of the United States.
Variations of the surname Burnap
The surname Burnap originates from England. Variations of this surname are largely based on phonetics. It underwent multiple changes as it moved through countries and languages, creating several different spellings. The variants of Burnap can include Bernabe, Burnhope, Burnep, Burnop, Burnap, Burnup, Burnoppe, and Bernhab. Additionally, similar sounding surnames such as Bernard and Burnett can be found but cannot be confirmed necessarily as stemming from the same roots as Burnap.
It can also be found with different prefixes such as "de," "von," or "van." for example De Burnap or Van Burnap. In certain cases, the surname can include an apostrophe, like Burn'ap, or a hyphen, such as Burn-Ap. It is also possible to find such names in combinations with other names, e.g. Burnap-Smith or Smith-Burnap.
As for the surname origin; burn signifies a stream, and hop, a small enclosed valley; a sheltered place. In most cases, the individual carrying the name was most likely living or working in such places. However, without detailed historical and genealogical research, it is improbable to determine exact variants and their origin.
Famous people with the name Burnap
- The name Burnap may not be as common as other surnames, and it doesn't have many famous bearers. However, there are still a few notable personalities that carry this unique surname.
- Derek Burnap: He is known for his contributions to literature as an author. His best-known work is "Tucker's Beach," which has received great reviews from the reading community.
- George Burnap: An internationally recognized landscape architect best known for designing Meridian Hill Park in Washington, D.C, as well as other public spaces and gardens.
- Molly Burnap: A talented artist known for her unique ceramic art pieces and has been part of various exhibitions.
- Robert Burnap: Born in 1824, he was a famous Universalist minister who was well-known for his writings, including several books on theology.
- Ellen Palmer Allerton: While her last name is not Burnap, she was nee Ellen Palmer Burnap and is a notable person with the Burnap name. She was a well-known poet born in 1835, famous for her work "The Winged Victory," among others. Please note that the level of fame these individuals have achieved may vary, and outside their professional circles, they might not be universally known.