Burgess Rawson
An English landowner and politician in the 17th century, known for his involvement in local governance.
IPA Pronunciation
ˈbɜːrdʒɪs
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Syllables
Burgess originates from the Old French word 'burgeis,' meaning a citizen of a town or borough. Historically, a burgess was a freeman or a representative of a borough in medieval England, often involved in local government or trade. The name carries connotations of civic responsibility and community standing.
Cultural Significance of Burgess
The name Burgess is deeply rooted in medieval English society, signifying a person who held a respected role in town governance or trade. It reflects the importance of citizenship and community status in historical contexts. Over time, the name became a surname and later a given name, embodying a legacy of civic pride and social responsibility.
Burgess Name Popularity in 2025
Today, Burgess is an uncommon but distinguished given name, appreciated for its strong historical ties and unique sound. It has a vintage charm that appeals to parents seeking a name that stands out without being overly trendy. While it remains more popular as a surname, its use as a first name is growing slowly, especially among families valuing tradition and heritage.
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Popular Nicknames10
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International Variations11
BurgisBurgessyBurgasBurgesssonBurgissBurgusBurgesBurgesséBurgessioBourgesBurgesss
Name Energy & Essence
The name Burgess carries the essence of “Town dweller or freeman of a borough” from Old French / Middle English tradition. Names beginning with "B" often embody qualities of stability, nurturing, and groundedness.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
The name Burgess is deeply rooted in medieval English society, signifying a person who held a respected role in town governance or trade. It reflects the importance of citizenship and community status in historical contexts. Over time, the name became a surname and later a given name, embodying a legacy of civic pride and social responsibility.
Burgess Shale (named after Charles Doolittle Walcott's discovery site)
While not a person, the Burgess Shale is a significant fossil field in Canada named after the nearby Burgess Pass, reflecting the name's geographic and scientific importance.
Burgess Meredith
American actor and director notable for his extensive career in theater, film, and television.
Burgess Meredith
Actor
Burgess Owens
Politician and former NFL player
Burgess Hill
Geographical name, but notable as an English town
Batman (1960s TV series) ()
Rocky ()
The Twilight Zone ()
Grumpy Old Men ()
Arrested Development ()
The Twilight Zone: The Movie ()
The Last Mile ()
Of Mice and Men ()
Ciudadano
🌐Spanish
Bourgeois
🌐French
Bürger
🌐German
Borghese
🌐Italian
バーガス (Bāgasu)
🌐Japanese
市民 (Shìmín)
🌐Chinese
بورجيس
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Burgess
The term 'burgess' was a formal title in medieval England, used to describe representatives who had voting rights in boroughs, making the name synonymous with early democratic participation.
Personality Traits for Burgess
Individuals named Burgess are often associated with leadership, responsibility, and a grounded nature. They tend to be seen as dependable, community-oriented, and thoughtful, with a natural inclination towards roles that involve organization or governance. Burgess personalities may also exhibit a strong sense of tradition and loyalty.
What does the name Burgess mean?
Burgess is a Old French / Middle English name meaning “Town dweller or freeman of a borough”. Burgess originates from the Old French word 'burgeis,' meaning a citizen of a town or borough. Historically, a burgess was a freeman or a representative of a borough in medieval England, often involved in local government or trade. The name carries connotations of civic responsibility and community standing.
How do you pronounce Burgess?
Burgess is pronounced (IPA: ˈbɜːrdʒɪs). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Burgess?
Popular nicknames for Burgess include: Burgie, Burg, B.J., Jess, Boo, Gess, Burgo, Bugs, Bers, Burgie-Boo.
Who are famous people named Burgess?
Famous people named Burgess include: , , , Burgess Meredith, Burgess Owens.