Cribben

Cribben is an English surname with its roots in the ancient Celtic culture of the British Isles. The name is of toponymic origin, derived from the Old English word "cruc" meaning "cross" or "cruce" meaning crossroads. The suffix "-ben" is thought to indicate a hill or a place, thus suggesting that the name may have originally referred to someone who lived near a crossroads or hill.

The earliest recorded instance of the surname Cribben dates back to the 13th century in the county of Cornwall. Over the centuries, bearers of the name Cribben have been documented throughout various counties in England, particularly in Cornwall, Devon, and Somerset.

The Cribben family has historically been associated with agriculture and landownership, with many members of the family residing in rural areas and working as farmers. The surname Cribben has also been linked to individuals engaged in trades such as blacksmithing, carpentry, and stonemasonry.

In contemporary times, the Cribben surname remains relatively uncommon but continues to be found predominantly in southwestern England. Some descendants of the Cribben family have migrated to other parts of the United Kingdom and beyond, contributing to the dispersion of the name.

Overall, the surname Cribben carries with it a rich history linked to the landscape and culture of England, reflecting the diverse origins and occupations of the families who bear it.

There are approximately 203 people named Cribben in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around three in a million people in Britain are named Cribben.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Adam
  • Andrew
  • Ben
  • Bunny
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Leonard
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Philip
  • Stephen

Female

  • Ann
  • April
  • Barbara
  • Carly
  • Catherine
  • Charlotte
  • Lauren
  • Marianne
  • Shelley
  • Tracey
  • Vivienne

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