What is the origin of the surname Cross?

Answer 1

The surname Cross is an English surname. The name originated from the pre 7th century Old Norse word "kross". As a surname it has several possible origins. It may have been a place name for someone who lived near a stone cross set up by the roadside or in a market place. The last name may have been given originally to someone who lived by a crossroads. The surname may have named the person who carried the cross in processions of the Christian Church.

Early examples of the name include Richard del Crosse, recorded in 1285 in Lancashire. John Cross, aged 18 years, was convicted of being a Monmouth rebel and was transported to the Barbadoes in 1685. His fate afterwards is unknown.

Answer 2

The earliest to carry the English surname Cross lived near a cross or crucifix. The name is first found in Lincolnshire, where they'd held a family seat.