Reid

The origins of the Reid surname are uncertain. In some instances, it was no doubt derived from the Old English word "read," meaning "red," and was a nickname that came to be a surname. Either way, we may conclude that it meant "red-haired" or "ruddy complexioned." To confuse matters more, there are also instances where the surname Reid is thought to be derived from one of various place names, such as Read in Lancashire, and Rede in Suffolk.