How common is the Ruddy surname?

There are approximately 25,000 people with the surname Ruddy in the United States.

Are there Ruddy soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 50 soldiers with the Ruddy surname appear in Civil War records.

Ruddy

Q: What does the surname Ruddy mean?

The surname Ruddy means "Having a ruddy or reddish complexion, derived from the Old English word 'rud' meaning red.". It is of English origin.

Descriptive

Meaning

Having a ruddy or reddish complexion, derived from the Old English word 'rud' meaning red.

Etymology

Ruddy derives from the Old English 'rud' (red) combined with the adjectival suffix '-y,' originally describing someone with a red or flushed complexion. This descriptive surname became hereditary in medieval England.

About the Ruddy Surname

A common English descriptive surname indicating someone with a ruddy or reddish complexion. The surname has been in use since medieval times and remains relatively common.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 25,000 bearers in the United States #739 most common surname

Rare Common

Found throughout the English-speaking world, with particular concentration in the United Kingdom and North America.

Ruddy Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Ruddy Surname

W.J. Ruddy

Quick Facts

Origin: English
Classification: Descriptive
Earliest Record: 13th century
Estimated Bearers: 25,000

War Records

50 soldiers with the Ruddy surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →