Discover people named Burford Burford

The last name Burford has its origins in England, specifically deriving from the Old English elements "burh," meaning "fort" or "fortified place," and "ford," referring to a river crossing. This suggests that the name was likely given to individuals who lived near a fortified river crossing or a settlement with defensive structures. Historically, the name can be traced back to various locations in England, particularly in the counties of Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire, where places named Burford still exist. The meaning of the surname reflects a connection to geographical features and may indicate the occupation of those who lived in such fortified areas, possibly as guardians or caretakers of these strategic locations. Variations of the surname can be found in different regions, including Burfurd and Burfitt, with some instances of anglicization in other countries leading to different spellings or pronunciations. Overall, the Burford surname encapsulates a rich historical and geographical significance tied to the landscape of medieval England.