Bassett

Bassett is a distinguished English surname with a long history. The name can be traced back to early medieval times and is of Anglo-Saxon origin. The surname is derived from the Old French word 'bas' or 'bass,' which means 'low' or 'short,' and 'set,' a term denoting a dwelling or a settlement. Ultimately, the name signifies a person who lived in a low-lying area or land.

The Bassett surname has been widely found throughout England, with notable concentrations in counties such as Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset. One of the earliest recorded instances of the surname is that of Ralph Bassett, who held land in the Domesday Book of 1086.

Over the centuries, various branches of the Bassett family have distinguished themselves in different fields, including politics, military service, and the arts. The Bassetts have held prominent positions in society and have played significant roles in British history.

One of the most well-known individuals with the Bassett surname is Sir William George Arthur Orde-Powlett, 5th Baronet, who was a British Army officer and a recipient of the Victoria Cross for his bravery during the First World War.

Today, the Bassett surname continues to be borne by numerous families across the United Kingdom and the wider world, reflecting a rich heritage and a legacy of accomplishment. The name remains a proud symbol of English identity and history.

There are approximately 8,788 people named Bassett in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,078th most common surname in Britain. Around 135 in a million people in Britain are named Bassett.

Surname type: Diminutive

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
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Stephen

Female

  • Christine
  • Claire
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Julia
  • Julie
  • Linda
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Patricia
  • Sally
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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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