Barr

Origin and Meaning: Barr is a British surname of Scottish and Northern Irish origin. It is derived from the Old English word "bar," which means "gate," or from the Old Norse word "barr," which means "barley." The surname may have originated as a topographic name for someone who lived near a gate or a bar, or as an occupational name for a barley farmer or seller.

History: The surname Barr is believed to have originated in Scotland and Northern Ireland. It is considered to be a toponymic surname, which means it was derived from a place name or a geographical feature. The Barr family has a long history dating back to medieval times, and individuals bearing this surname can be found across the United Kingdom and beyond.

Variants: Variants of the surname Barr include Bar, Barrs, Bahr, Barre, and others. These variations may have developed over time due to changes in spelling, pronunciation, or regional dialects.

Notable People:

  • Robert Barr (1850–1912): A Scottish-Canadian author known for his detective stories and adventure novels.
  • Roseanne Barr (Born 1952): An American actress, comedian, and television producer.
  • Martin Barr (Born 1987): A professional motocross and supercross rider from Northern Ireland.

Popularity: The surname Barr is not among the most common surnames in the United Kingdom, but it has a notable presence in Scotland and Northern Ireland. It is considered a distinctive surname with a rich history and heritage.

In conclusion, the surname Barr is a Scottish and Northern Irish surname with roots dating back to medieval times. It represents a connection to gates, barley, or other occupational or topographic features. The Barr surname carries with it a sense of history and tradition, with bearers of the name found in various professional fields and regions.

There are approximately 14,654 people named Barr in the UK. That makes it the 606th most common surname in Britain. Around 225 in a million people in Britain are named Barr.

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Scotland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Robert
  • Stephen
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Catherine
  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Jacqueline
  • Jane
  • Jean
  • Karen
  • Linda
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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