Surname Rogerson - Meaning and Origin

Rogerson: What does the surname Rogerson mean?

The surname Rogerson is of English origin. It is derived from "Roger's son," with Roger being a popular personal name during the Middle Ages in England. The name Roger itself comes from the Germanic elements "hrod," meaning fame, and "geri," meaning spear. Therefore, Rogerson could be interpreted as "the son of the famous spearman." This name became popular due to a famous early saint named Roger of Beeleigh. Most surnames during this time were based on the person's trade, physical attributes, or by designating who their parents, particularly their father, were. Over time, as populations grew larger, these surnames became inherited and remained fixed, establishing family lineages that are traced even today. Thus, people who carry the last name Rogerson likely are descendants of a person who was originally named after his father, Roger.

Rogerson: Where does the name Rogerson come from?

The last name Rogerson is of Anglo-Saxon origin and is patronymic, derived from the personal name Roger, meaning "son of Roger." The name Roger is a configuration of the components "hroth," translated as fame or renown, and "gari," which means spear; hence, Roger means “renowned spear.” The "son" ending reinforces its patronymic nature. Thus, Rogerson essentially means "famous spear son."

The Rogerson surname surfaced in many manuscripts, including the Hundredorum Rolls of 1273, where the name Willelmus filius Rogeri (William, son of Roger) was recorded in Cambridgeshire. The variation "Rogerson" was first found in Cumberland.

Today, this surname is more commonly spelled as "Rogerson" in the northeastern regions of England, the birthplace of this surname. However, it is not restricted to these areas and can be found spread throughout the UK, as well as in Commonwealth countries like Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and South Africa, which saw substantial British migration during the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries. Fewer occurrences are found in the United States, making it less common there.

Variations of the surname Rogerson

The surname Rogerson, of Anglo-Saxon origin, could have several variants and spellings based on regional dialects, translation errors, or personal preference. The most common variations can include Rodgerson, Roggerson, Rogersson, and Rogerison. Some families also chose to simplify the name to Rogers, Roger, Rogersons, or even Roger's.

Elsewhere in the world, the surname may be translated into local languages, creating additional variations. For example, in Denmark, it may be Roger'sen, or Onroer in the Netherlands.

Throughout history, scribes would often record a name as it was pronounced, so it was not uncommon for spelling variations like Rodger, Rodger’s or Rodger’s son to be used. Furthermore, Rogerson could be transformed into complete derivatives like Roger’s kin, indicating family ties to a person named Roger.

These spellings are only estimates, however, as multiple surnames can derive from each, and some transformations may have no connection to the original surname. It's also worth noting that surnames often evolved as families moved from place to place and as the language itself changed over time with influence from different cultures.

Famous people with the name Rogerson

• Rosanna Rogerson: An actress known for "The Waiting Game" and "Just Like a Woman".
• Stu Rogerson: A producer and actor known for "Three's Company" and "The Ropers".
• Fred Rogerson: An actor best known for "Coronation Street".
• Fiona Rogerson: An actress known for the TV series "Angels".
• Pete Rogerson: A former Canadian association football player.
• Richard Rogerson: An American economist currently working as a professor at Princeton University.
• Paul Rogerson: A renowned journalist in the UK who serves as editor-in-chief of the Law Society Gazette.
• Kenneth Rogerson: An American academic focusing on public policy and technology.
• Andy Rogerson: A former professional footballer who played as a defender in the English football league.
• Eddie Rogerson: A former professional rugby league footballer.
• Scott Rogerson: A professional soccer player from Canada.
• Christine Rogerson: A Canadian curler from St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador.
• Jim Rogerson: A former Scottish professional snooker player.
• John Rogerson: An Irish civil engineer noted for his work in early 19th century Dublin.
• Jonty Rogerson: A former South African rugby union player.

Other surnames

Rogers