Surname Travers - Meaning and Origin

Unraveling the Threads of History with the iGENEA DNA Test: An Emotional Journey to Rediscovering the Significance of the Travers Surname

Undergoing an iGENEA DNA test, I uncovered hidden facets of my identity, developing a deep-seated connection to the surname Travers. My journey was filled with anticipation and discovery, culminating in a profound sense of belonging and understanding.

S. Travers

Travers: What does the surname Travers mean?

The surname Travers is of Norman origin and was introduced into England after the Norman Conquest of 1066. It is derived from the Old French word ''traverse'', which means "to cross". The name was likely occupational, used for someone who was a toll collector at a bridge or a ford. It may also be locational, for someone living near a bridge or ford, or topographical for someone who lived by a prominent crossroads. The name is common in Lancashire, showing the Normans' extensive land grants and influence in that area. Variations of the name include Travis, Travers, and Traviss. Despite these various possibilities, the common denominator is the notion of crossing or traversal, which suggests movement and travel. Therefore, this surname symbolizes a sense of adventure and exploration.

Travers: Where does the name Travers come from?

The last name Travers is most commonly seen today in English-speaking countries. It is especially popular in Ireland, Great Britain, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States.

The origins of the name Travers are thought to come from Norman times when French people were coming in to England and Ireland from Normandy. It is thought that the name may have derived from the French word “travers” which translates as ‘crossroads’.

Currently, Travers is the 103rd most popular last name in the United States, according to the US Census Bureau. With over 132,000 individuals today carrying this surname, many Travers families reconnected as a result of genealogical research sharing a common ancestor in Charles Travers who settled in Virginia in 1620.

In Australia, Travers is the 126th most common surname, according to the 2016 Australian Census. Over 10,000 Australians in 2016 reported Travers as their last name. Ireland is the birthplace of the Travers family name and home to many early bearers of the surname.

Today, Travers are scattered across the planet, with notable individuals in various industries. From soccer player Steven Travers to Wales rugby star Gordon Travers, and Hollywood actor Tom Travers, the Travers name continues to make strides across the world.

Variations of the surname Travers

The surname Travers is derived from the Old French for " to cross". Variations in spelling include Traveres, Traverse, Traversa, Traverso, Traversi, Traversy, Traves, Travey, and Travesi.

This surname can also appear as: Travars, Trayvors, Travors, Trayvor, Trayver, Travver, Thraves, Traives. It can also be seen in combination with other surnames such as Traversey-Moore, Travers-Smith, Traverse-Anderson, and Travers-Lee.

Other variations of the surname Travers can be found on various records, such as Travers-Darcy, Traversy-Holberry, Travers-Grey, and Traversy-Falconer. Different combinations of these variants can also be found in following forms: Traversay-Askew, Travers-Deary, Traversay-Tooks, Traversay-Catton, Travers-Vyner, and Traversay-Kershaw.

In some cases, the names Trevors, Traversed, Dravus, DuTravers, and Tarver may also be of similar origin. Unusual spelling variations such as Traversae, Traver, Drews, Travies, and Travaers could also be related to the same ancestry.

In conclusion, there are numerous variants, spellings, and surnames that are closely connected to the surname Travers. Every variation can be attributed to regional dialects, as well as the purpose of making the original surname easier to pronoun.

Famous people with the name Travers

• Mary Poppins (author, P.L. Travers)
• Alice Travers, French actress
• Jay Travers, American singer and actor
• Mark Travers, Irish professional footballer
• P.K. Travers, Canadian records producer
• Alex Travers, English actor
• Patrick Travers, Canadian rock guitarist
• Jake Travers, Australian diver
• Tom Travers, New Zealand actor
• Marjorie Travers, Australian actress
• Ryan Travers, American professional wrestler
• Joe Travers, American drummer
• John Travers, British government minister
• Melissa Travers, American figure skater
• James Travers, English writer
• Simon Travers, Australian rugby league player
• Chris Travers, American computer programmer
• Kerry Travers, Australian radio presenter
• William Travers, British lawyer and politician
• Brandy Travers, American tennis player

Other surnames

Traves