How common is the Short surname?

There are approximately 42,000 people with the surname Short in the United States.

Are there Short soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 1,492 soldiers with the Short surname appear in Civil War records.

Short

Q: What does the surname Short mean?

The surname Short means "A descriptive surname referring to someone who was of short stature or small in physical size.". It is of Old English origin.

Descriptive

Meaning

A descriptive surname referring to someone who was of short stature or small in physical size.

Etymology

Derived from Old English 'sceort' meaning short or brief. The surname was applied to individuals of notably short physical stature.

About the Short Surname

Short was used as a distinguishing descriptor for individuals of short stature in medieval communities. The surname has maintained consistent usage.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 42,000 bearers in the United States #630 most common surname

Rare Common

Found throughout England and distributed across English-speaking countries.

Short Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

Dewey Short

Rep.

Frank Short

Judge

Harry Short

Shirley Short

Quick Facts

Origin: Old English
Classification: Descriptive
Estimated Bearers: 42,000

War Records

1,492 soldiers with the Short surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →