Best

Origin and Meaning: The surname Best is of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English word "besta," meaning "the best" or "excellent." It is a surname that likely originated as a nickname for someone who demonstrated exceptional skill or talent in a particular field.

Distribution: The surname Best is most commonly found in the United Kingdom, particularly in England and Scotland. It is also prevalent in other English-speaking countries, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, due to migration and settlement patterns.

Notable Individuals:

  • George Best (1946-2005): A legendary Northern Irish footballer known for his exceptional talent and flair on the field. Best played for Manchester United and the Northern Ireland national team, earning a reputation as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
  • Angela Best (1957-): A British model and author, known for her work in the fashion industry and her marriage to former footballer George Best.
  • Calum Best (1981-): The son of George Best and an English-American television personality, model, and actor.

Coat of Arms: The Best family coat of arms features a shield with symbols representing strength, honour, and courage. The crest often includes motifs such as lions, eagles, or crowns, reflecting the family's heritage and values.

Variants: Variants of the surname Best include "Beste" and "Beyst."

Legacy: The surname Best carries a legacy of excellence and distinction, symbolising individuals who strive for the highest standards in their endeavours. From sports stars to scholars, the Best name continues to be associated with achievement and success in various fields.

There are approximately 15,880 people named Best in the UK. That makes it the 555th most common surname in Britain. Around 244 in a million people in Britain are named Best.

Surname type: Nickname

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
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Christine
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Gillian
  • Helen
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Michelle
  • Nicola
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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