Redford
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Redford
Redford, which has 7 letters and 2 syllables, is a unisex name of English origin.
Meaning of Redford
Over the red river
The name Redford is a combination of the English words “red” and “ford” and is believed to have originated as a surname. It is derived from the Old English term “read”, meaning “red”, and “ford”, meaning “river crossing”. It is believed to have originated as a place name for a river crossing where the water was red due to the presence of iron oxide.
| Meaning | Over the red river |
| Origin | English |
| Gender | Unisex |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Not in top 1000) |
Background & History of The Name Redford
The name "Redford" is of English origin and has various meanings and associations. It is thought to be a locational surname, derived from a place name. The most prominent origin theory suggests that it originates from the Old English words "read" meaning "red" and "ford" meaning "ford," indicating a crossing point over a river with a reddish appearance. This association with a river crossing could imply that the name Redford was initially given to someone who lived near or worked at such a crossing.
In addition to its locational origins, the name Redford also has connections to personal names. It could be a variant of the given name "Reedford," combining the elements "reed" and "ford," with "reed" referring to the plant that grows in marshy areas and "ford" to a crossing point. Alternatively, Redford may be a patronymic surname derived from the given name "Read," which itself is a variant of "Reid" or "Reed." These given names, meaning "red-haired" or "red-headed," were often bestowed upon individuals with distinctive red hair or a reddish complexion.
The surname Redford has been borne by notable individuals throughout history. One such figure is the American actor and director Robert Redford, who rose to fame in the 1960s and has since become an influential figure in the film industry. His success has undoubtedly contributed to the popularity of the name Redford as a given name or surname.
In conclusion, the name Redford derives from its locational or personal name origins and carries associations with a river crossing or a red-haired individual. It has gained prominence through the achievements of well-known individuals such as Robert Redford. Whether used as a given name or surname, Redford carries a sense of heritage and distinction.
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