Barrs

Origin and Meaning

Barrs is a surname of English origin, which derives from the Old English word "bearu," meaning a grove or wood. It is believed to have originally been a topographic name for someone who lived near a grove or a stand of trees.

Distribution and Variants

The surname Barrs is relatively uncommon and is mainly found in the United Kingdom. Variants of the name include Barr, Barres, and Barre.

Notable Individuals

  • John Barrs (1809-1876): An English poet and writer known for his works on nature and rural life.
  • Jessica Barrs (b. 1985): A British actress who has appeared in several popular TV series.

Coat of Arms

The Barrs family crest features a shield with a green background, symbolizing hope and joy. At its centre, there is a tree, representing a grove. The motto "Vigilantiae et Honoris," meaning "Vigilance and Honour," is inscribed below the shield.

Interesting Facts

  • The surname Barrs may also have Scottish origins, as it is sometimes found in Scottish records, particularly in the south-west region.

Overall, the surname Barrs has a rich history and is associated with individuals across various fields, making it a name of cultural and historical significance in the British Isles.

There are approximately 928 people named Barrs in the UK. That makes it roughly the 7,801st most common surname in Britain. Around 14 in a million people in Britain are named Barrs.

Surname type: Location or geographical feature

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Christopher
  • David
  • Ian
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Philip
  • Robert
  • Roger
  • Terrence

Female

  • Angela
  • Catherine
  • Claire
  • Dorothy
  • Hannah
  • Jacqueline
  • Janet
  • Jean
  • Karen
  • Klt
  • Linda
  • Natalie
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Tracey

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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