Ripley

Topographic

Meaning

One who dwells in a clearing where strips of land are cultivated.

Etymology

Derived from Old English 'ripel' or 'rip' (a strip of land) combined with 'leah' (clearing or meadow). The name originated as a locational surname referring to settlements in England with this geographical feature.

About the Ripley Surname

Ripley is an established English surname with multiple place origins throughout England. The name gained wider recognition through Robert Ripley's 'Believe It or Not!' phenomenon in the 20th century.

Distribution

Primarily found in England and North America, with historical concentration in Yorkshire and Derbyshire.

Notable Bearers

Robert Ripley, Harriet Ripley

People with the Ripley Surname

J.P. Ripley

President of Harriman, Ripley, & Co.