Anglo-Saxon surnames originated in England during the early medieval period, primarily between the 5th and 11th centuries. These names often reflect a person's occupation, location, or a characteristic. For example, surnames like Smith indicate a blacksmith, while names like Hill may refer to someone living near a hill. Many Anglo-Saxon surnames have persisted through generations and can provide insights into family history and heritage. They often consist of two parts: a given name and a suffix, such as son or ing, which denotes lineage. This naming convention laid the groundwork for modern surnames in English-speaking countries.