A surname of English origin, also referring to areas or places named Copeland. Can refer to various geographical locations or notable people bearing this name.
From Old Norse kaupland meaning 'bought land' or Middle English copeland meaning 'land that has been purchased'. Originally described land that was bought rather than inherited, indicating commercial rather than feudal ownership.
The name Copeland reveals medieval attitudes toward property - it specifically meant land you bought with money rather than inherited or received through feudal service! This makes every Copeland descendant's name a tiny monument to early capitalism and land ownership.
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