Pritchard

Patronymic

Meaning

Son of Richard, derived from the Welsh patronymic prefix 'ap' combined with the personal name Richard.

Etymology

From Welsh 'ap Richard' (son of Richard), where 'ap' is the patronymic prefix and Richard is from Germanic 'Ricohard' (powerful ruler). The 'ap' was gradually contracted and merged with the personal name over time.

About the Pritchard Surname

A Welsh patronymic surname indicating descent from someone named Richard. The surname remains common in Wales and Welsh-speaking communities.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 8,000 bearers in the United States #1,263 most common surname
Rare Common

Primarily found in Wales and among Welsh diaspora communities.

Pritchard Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer
More

Notable Bearers

People with the Pritchard Surname