How common is the Sams surname?

There are approximately 30,000 people with the surname Sams in the United States.

Are there Sams soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 272 soldiers with the Sams surname appear in Civil War records.

Sams

Q: What does the surname Sams mean?

The surname Sams means "Son of Sam, a diminutive of Samuel meaning 'God has heard'.". It is of Hebrew/English origin.

Patronymic

Meaning

Son of Sam, a diminutive of Samuel meaning 'God has heard'.

Etymology

Sams is a patronymic surname derived from the personal name Sam, itself a diminutive of Samuel from Hebrew Shemu'el. The -s ending indicates possession or descent in English naming conventions.

About the Sams Surname

Sams is a straightforward patronymic surname derived from the common personal name Sam. It remains relatively uncommon as a surname compared to fuller forms like Sampson or Samuel.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 30,000 bearers in the United States #715 most common surname

Rare Common

Found throughout English-speaking countries, with concentrations in England and the United States.

Sams Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Sams Surname

Ruben Sams

Provincial Prohibition Chief

Quick Facts

Origin: Hebrew/English
Classification: Patronymic
Earliest Record: Medieval England
Estimated Bearers: 30,000

War Records

272 soldiers with the Sams surname found in Civil War records.

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