Burgess is a surname of English origin, often associated with various notable individuals and places. It can refer to people such as Anthony Burgess, a famous British author known for his novel "A Clockwork Orange," or Burgess Meredith, an American actor celebrated for his roles in film and television. In a broader context, the term "burgess" historically referred to a citizen of a borough in England, particularly one who had the right to vote or hold office. This term is also used in some American towns to denote a member of the local governing body.