How common is the Swain surname?

There are approximately 28,000 people with the surname Swain in the United States.

Are there Swain soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 883 soldiers with the Swain surname appear in Civil War records.

Swain

Q: What does the surname Swain mean?

The surname Swain means "A young man, servant, or laborer, particularly one who tends to animals.". It is of English/Scandinavian origin.

Occupational

Meaning

A young man, servant, or laborer, particularly one who tends to animals.

Etymology

Derived from Old Norse 'sveinn' (young man, servant) or Old English 'swain' (youth, attendant). The term was commonly used for farm laborers and herders in medieval times.

About the Swain Surname

An occupational surname denoting a servant or laborer, particularly one working with animals. The name has been borne by various notable figures in entertainment and other professions.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 28,000 bearers in the United States #723 most common surname

Rare Common

Found throughout England and common in English-speaking countries, particularly the United States.

Swain Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Swain Surname

Bert Swain

Quick Facts

Origin: English/Scandinavian
Classification: Occupational
Earliest Record: 12th century, England
Estimated Bearers: 28,000

War Records

883 soldiers with the Swain surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →