What is the origin of the last name Rush?
Countries of origin for the last name Rush
The last name Rush is of English and Irish origin. It is primarily a surname but can also be used as a given name. The name is derived from the Old French word “rusc(h)e,” which means “reed” or “rush.” This suggests that the surname Rush may have originated as a topographic name for someone who lived near a reed bed or as an occupational name for someone who harvested or worked with reeds.
As an English surname, Rush can be traced back to the medieval period. Early records show variations of the name, such as Ralph Rusche and William Russhe, in the 13th century. The surname Rush was also found in various regions of England, including Devon, Yorkshire, and Surrey.
In Ireland, Rush is considered an Anglicized form of the Gaelic surname Ó Ruis, which means “descendant of Ruis.” The exact meaning and origin of Ruis are unclear, but it has been suggested to be derived from the Gaelic word “ruith,” meaning “red.” It is also possible that it may have originated from the Old Norse personal name Hróaldr.
Throughout history, individuals with the surname Rush have made notable contributions in various fields, including politics, sports, and entertainment. For example, Benjamin Rush was one of the signers of the United States Declaration of Independence and an influential physician. Dr. Walter M. Rush was a prominent civil rights leader in Mississippi during the mid-20th century. In the world of sports, Brandon Rush is a professional basketball player who has played for several NBA teams.
The surname Rush has also been associated with several places. One such example is Rush County, located in the state of Indiana, which was named after Dr. Benjamin Rush.
In summary, the last name Rush has English and Irish origins, deriving from the word “rusc(h)e,” meaning “reed” or “rush.” It has been used as a topographic name or as an occupational name throughout history. Notable individuals with this surname have made significant contributions in various fields. The associations with places further highlight the impact of the Rush name. The analysis of this last name provides a comprehensive understanding of its origins and significance, but there may still be untold stories waiting to be discovered in the depths of genealogical research.
Interesting facts about the last name Rush
- The surname Rush is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word “risc” or “rissc,” meaning “brushwood” or “dweller by the brushwood.
- The name Rush has several possible variations including Rushe, Rusch, and Rushing.
- One notable individual with the surname Rush is Benjamin Rush (1745-1813), an American physician and signer of the United States Declaration of Independence.
- The Rush surname has been recorded in various documents and census records throughout history, with notable concentrations in England, Ireland, and the United States.
- In Ireland, the surname Rush is primarily found in Counties Dublin and Louth.
- The name Rush can also be found as a place name, such as Rush, a small seaside town in County Dublin, Ireland.
- Russian-born American psychologist and philosopher, Leonid Hurwicz, winner of the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 2007, was originally named Leonid William Hurwicz-Rush, before legally changing his name.
- The surname Rush is relatively uncommon compared to more prevalent surnames like Smith or Johnson.
- As with many surnames, individuals bearing the name Rush have made a variety of contributions in fields such as music, sports, politics, and academia.