CULLEN

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Cullen

Origin and Meaning

Cullen is a British surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English personal name "Cula," which means "cool" or "calm." This surname has different variations, including "Cullan" and "Cullane." The name Cullen is commonly found in England, Scotland, and Ireland, with historical roots that date back to medieval times.

History

The Cullen surname is associated with several notable individuals throughout history. One of the most famous figures with this surname is William Cullen (1710–1790), a Scottish physician and chemist who made significant contributions to the field of medicine. He was a renowned professor of medicine at the University of Edinburgh and is considered one of the pioneers of modern medical education.

During the migration period, the Cullen family name spread to various parts of the British Isles and eventually to the United States, Canada, and Australia, where descendants of the Cullen family established themselves and contributed to the development of their respective communities.

Coat of Arms

The Cullen family crest features elements that symbolize courage, loyalty, and strength. The coat of arms often includes a shield with distinctive symbols such as lions, castles, and crosses, which reflect the family's heritage and values.

Modern Significance

In contemporary society, individuals with the surname Cullen continue to carry on the legacy of their ancestors, pursuing various professions and contributing to diverse fields such as business, academia, the arts, and more. The Cullen surname remains a part of British heritage and serves as a reminder of the rich history and traditions of the region.

Overall, the surname Cullen represents a deep-rooted connection to British history and culture, exemplifying the resilience and endurance of a family name that has stood the test of time.

There are approximately 16,846 people named Cullen in the UK. That makes it the 528th most common surname in Britain. Around 259 in a million people in Britain are named Cullen.

Surname type: From given name or forename

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Ireland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Patrick
  • Paul
  • Thomas

Female

  • Anne
  • Catherine
  • Deborah
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Jacqueline
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

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

BritishSurnames.uk is a Good Stuff website.