The Oxford Names Companion

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The Oxford Names Companion offers comprehensive information on place and personal names in the British Isles, organized into three sections: Surnames, First Names, and British Place-Names. A Dictionary of Surnames details the origins and meanings of nearly 70,000 surnames, covering both common and rare names of European derivation in the English-speaking world. It includes historical context and distribution data, with insights from specialists on areas like Jewish names and Celtic languages, making it an unparalleled resource. A Dictionary of First Names presents a thorough examination of approximately 7,000 first names used in the British Isles, highlighting their linguistic, historical, and cultural significance. This section emphasizes the connection between names and individual or familial identity, reflecting Britain's rich cultural diversity. A Dictionary of British Place-Names compiles around 15,000 names from Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, tracing their evolution from ancient times to today. The names are presented in their original languages, such as Celtic and Old English, illustrating the remarkable endurance of place-names throughout history.