Surname Isom - Meaning and Origin

iGENEA DNA Test Discloses My Past: Unforeseen Twists in the Isom Lineage

The Isom name, a constant reminder of my family's lineage, has always intrigued me. This fascination led me to iGENEA DNA testing, seeking a more profound understanding of my roots. The results? A journey full of surprises and unexpected revelations.

Y. Isom

Isom: What does the surname Isom mean?

The last name 'Isom' is of English origin, specifically from Northumbria in Northern England. It is derived from the personal name 'Isemonger.' 'Isom' is a patronymic surname, which means it is based on the first name of a male ancestor. The transformation from 'Isemonger' to 'Isom' likely occurred over centuries, with spelling and pronunciation changes occurring as the name was passed down through generations. In Old English, 'Isemonger' would mean 'iron trader' or 'trader of iron', implying that the family's earliest progenitors were likely involved in the iron trade. Such trade names were common in medieval England, reflecting the occupation of the person bearing the name. Therefore, the last name 'Isom' points towards a family history of involvement in trade, specifically dealing with iron or other metals. However, there is not extensive documentation on this surname, and various families with the 'Isom' surname could have different origins and meanings for their respective family history.

Isom: Where does the name Isom come from?

The surname Isom is believed to have originated from England. It's derived from the Old Norse personal name “Ísulfr” which is combined with “-son” indicating "son of Ísulfr". The first recorded spelling of the family name was during the 13th Century.

As for where the surname is most common today, according to Forebears' surname database, it is most prevalent in the United States, ranking 3,398. There are approximately 30,751 people with the last name Isom globally and more than 27,000 of these are in the United States. In fact, Alabama is the state with the highest number of Isoms. Other states with notably high numbers include Tennessee, Mississippi, Kentucky, and Texas. Despite its English origins, it's not commonly found in England today, ranking 14,632nd in prevalence. This surname is also mildly common in Australia.

Variations of the surname Isom

The surname Isom, primarily found in United States, United Kingdom and Sweden, has various spellings and variations. Some common variants of this surname are Isam, Issom, and Aisom. It is believed that the name could be derived from the biblical name "Isham", and hence bear variations of that name as well, such as Ishem, Ishum, Esham and even Yeasham.

There are hypotheses that Isom could be a patronymic surname, descended from the father's given name (like Johnson, meaning "son of John"). Thus, potential ancestral names may include Isomson or Isamson.

It is also possible that the surname evolved from a geographical origin, e.g., a town or village name, or a topological feature. This would add potential variants like Isomtown, Isomville, or Isomfield.

Finally, this surname, particularly in United States, could have alternative spellings accommodating different phonetic pronunciations, colloquialisms or language adaptations over time, such as Isome, Isamme, or even Eesom.

Keep in mind that surname origins can be complex and multifaceted, often requiring professional genealogical research to accurately trace. The above-mentioned variants are hypothetical scenarios and may or may not represent accurate historical derivations.

Famous people with the name Isom

• Ray Isom: Politician and former member of the Louisiana House of Representatives
• Don Isom: Retired American professional basketball player
• Charles Isom Jr.: American inventor of Bi-speckled Ostrich Scissors
• Tony Isom: Retired National Football League (NFL) player
• Amber Isom: American fashion model and commercial actress
• Audrey Isom: Entrepreneur best known for creating the brand A2Gology
• Ramon Isom: Recognized World War II artist and mural painter
• Will Isom: Contemporary American actor and writer
• Kevin Isom: Registered Investment Adviser
• Brian Isom: Award-winning art director and publisher

Other surnames

IsokeitIsoldIson