Double names occasionally occur, the second being a nickname or true surname, as Osgod Clapa, Benedict Biscop, Thurkytel Myranheafod, Godwine Bace, and AElfric Cerm.

Trade names are also found, as Ecceard smith, or Godwig boor.

Everywhere, but especially in the Danish North, patronymics were in common use; for example, Harold Godwine's son, or Thored Gunnor's son.

In all these cases we get surnames in the germ; but their general and official adoption dates from after the Norman Conquest.
Local nomenclature also demands a short explanation.

Most of the Roman towns continued to be called by their Roman names: Londinium, Lunden, London; Eburacum, Eoforwic, Eurewic, York; Lindum Colonia, Lincolne, Lincoln.