Converse (surname)

Converse is a surname with origins in both England and France.

Origin and Meaning:

• English Origin: The English surname Converse is generally believed to be derived from the Middle English word "convers," meaning "one who lives with" or "one who is familiar with." It could have been an occupational name for someone who worked or resided with a religious order (convent), or perhaps a nickname for a sociable person.

• French Origin: The French surname Converse may be derived from the Old French word "convers," which held similar meanings to the English term, possibly denoting a lay brother in a monastery or a sociable person.

Distribution:

The surname Converse is found primarily in English-speaking countries, particularly the United States. It is also present, though less common, in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

Notable People with the Surname Converse:

• Frederick Converse (1871-1940): An American composer.
• George L. Converse (1827-1897): An American politician and U.S. Representative from Ohio.
• Juliet Wilbur Allen Converse (1818-1903): An American hymn writer.

Variations:

Variations of the surname may include Convers.

Further Research:

Genealogical resources and surname dictionaries can provide more detailed information about the Converse surname, including its historical distribution and family lineages.