Burgess is a surname of Norman origin, derived from the Old French word 'bourg', meaning 'fortress' or 'stronghold'. It was originally given to someone who lived near a fortress or stronghold, and was brought to England by the Normans after the 1066 invasion.
In some cases, Burgess can also be used as a given name. When used as a first name, it is often chosen for its unique sound and historical associations. However, it's important to note that Burgess is not typically found on traditional baby name lists, so parents choosing this name may be looking for something distinctive or meaningful.
As a surname, Burgess has been carried by many notable individuals throughout history. Some of the most famous bearers include the American writer Anthony Burgess, best known for his novel "A Clockwork Orange", and the English poet and playwright Joe Orton. These figures have contributed to the cultural significance of the name Burgess over time.
In terms of popularity as a given name, there is no significant data available due to its rarity. However, it's clear that Burgess has been chosen as a first name by some families seeking a unique and meaningful name for their child.
Overall, whether used as a surname or given name, Burgess carries historical roots and cultural significance that may appeal to parents looking for something distinctive or meaningful for their child.
The name Burgess experienced fluctuations in popularity over the years, with a notable peak during World War I and immediately after. From 1913 to 1926, there were consistently high numbers of births, reaching a maximum of 28 births in 1922. However, from the late 1930s onwards, the popularity of the name declined steadily, with fewer than 15 births per year recorded from 1947 onwards. The most recent data available is from 2010, indicating that the name has not regained its former popularity in more recent times, with only 7 births recorded that year. In total, over the period covered by these statistics, there were 1089 births with the name Burgess.