Ransom

Meaning

A payment demanded for the release of a captive, or derived from the name Randolph.

Etymology

Ransom developed as both a surname from the word 'ransom' (from Old French 'rancon') and as a variant of Randolph, which comes from Germanic elements 'rand' (shield) and 'wolf.' The occupational origin refers to one who collected ransoms or dealt with captives.

About the Name Ransom

Ransom is an English surname that has occasionally been used as a given name, particularly in American contexts. It carries both historical weight from its occupational origins and literary associations.

Notable Bearers

Historical People Named Ransom