Surnames as a Science

A systematic study of family names traces English surnames to ancient Teutonic and Anglo-Saxon roots, arguing that many common or humble names conceal older, dignified origins. It examines sound-changes, compound-name formation, patronymics, corruptions, and place-name evidence; surveys the names brought by early settlers and the influence of Frankish, Germanic, and Norse elements; and considers misleading forms and female Christian names. Organized into thematic chapters, the work provides comparative stems, etymological analyses, examples of deceptive appearance, and practical aids for readers, closing with a bibliography, additions and corrections, and an index of names for further study.