Summary

The surname Roach is of English origin. It is derived from the Middle English word 'roche,' meaning a large, cultivated area or a rocky place. The surname may have referred to someone who lived near such a place or who worked as a gardener or a person who took care of fishponds. Roach could also have been a nickname for someone who had a roach-like appearance or mannerisms.
There are
45019
Roachs in the USA
Roach is the
764th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Roach

WilliamRoach

William Roach is a British actor best known for his role as Ken Barlow in the long-running soap opera 'Coronation Street.' He has been part of the show since its first episode in 1960 and holds the Guinness World Record for the longest-serving actor in a continuous role.

RoachThompson

Roach Thompson is an American jazz drummer and composer known for his work with renowned jazz musicians such as Charles Mingus, Miles Davis, and Art Pepper. He is considered one of the pioneers of bebop drumming.

SylviaRoach

Sylvia Roach is a Trinidadian calypsonian and folklorist. She is known for her powerful and soulful singing style, as well as her contribution to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Trinidad and Tobago.

RoachGigz

Roach Gigz is an American rapper from San Francisco, California. He gained popularity with his mixtapes and energetic live performances, known for his witty and clever lyrics.

MaxRoach

Max Roach was an American jazz drummer, composer, and bandleader. He was a central figure in the development of bebop and modern jazz, known for his innovative drumming style and rhythmic complexity.

OliverRoach

Oliver Roach is an Australian cricket player who represented Australia in international matches. He is known for his skills as a fast bowler and has played for various teams in domestic cricket.

ElizabethRoach

Elizabeth Roach was one of the accused in the Salem witch trials of 1692. She was arrested and imprisoned but later released without a trial due to lack of evidence.

RaymondRoche

Raymond Roche is a French former professional motorcycle road racer. He competed in the Superbike World Championship and won the title in 1990, becoming the first French rider to achieve this feat.

NicoleRoach

Nicole Roach is a Canadian track and field athlete specializing in the sprint events. She has represented Canada in international competitions, including the Olympic Games.

GinaRoach

Gina Roach is an English football referee. She has officiated in various matches, including women's football and lower league games in the English football league system.

Roach Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Roach' is of Irish and English origin. In Irish, it comes from the Gaelic surname 'Ó Ruadháin' meaning 'descendant of Ruadhán,' a personal name derived from the Irish word 'ruadh' meaning 'red-haired.' In English, it is believed to be derived from the Middle English word 'roche' meaning 'roach fish,' which may have been a nickname for someone associated with fishing or living near a river or stream.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Roach' is found in various parts of the world, including Ireland, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The distribution is largely influenced by migration and colonization.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Roach' include 'Roche' and 'Roch.' These variations often reflect regional or language differences.
Migration and ImmigrationPeople with the surname 'Roach' have migrated and immigrated to different countries throughout history. Irish immigrants, in particular, carried the surname to countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia.