The limited number of Christian names in use in the 11th Century often led to many people with same first name living in the same area, and a form of further identification was needed.

The Normans had started a system of surnames in France in about the year 1000, and they were responsible for introducing this system to Britain during the 11th Century.

Surnames were usually patronymic (son of), occupational (the persons trade or profession), local (place of birth or residence), or a nickname.

The name Wright is occupational from the Old English word "wryhta", meaning "carpenter, joiner, one who wrought" and from this name comes Wheelwright, Playwright, Cheesewright etc. Early records show a Patere Le Writh in Sussex in 1214; a  Robert Le Wrichte is recorded in Essex in 1255.

The ancient family motto was MERITESZ (French), meaning "Deservedly".