Dunbar

The surname Dunbar originates from Scotland, particularly from the town of Dunbar in East Lothian. The name is of locational origin, derived from the Old Gaelic "Dun Bar," meaning "fort on a summit."

The earliest recordings of the surname date back to the 12th century, where the Dunbar family were prominent members of the Scottish nobility, with lands and castles in East Lothian. The Dunbars played a significant role in Scottish history, with many individuals from the clan holding important positions in society.

Over time, the Dunbar surname spread across Scotland and beyond, particularly to England and other parts of the British Isles. The name can be found in various spellings, including Dunbar, Dunbarr, and Dumbar.

Today, individuals with the surname Dunbar can be found worldwide, with a concentration in Scotland, England, and former British colonies. The name continues to carry a sense of heritage and legacy from its noble Scottish origins.

There are approximately 6,928 people named Dunbar in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,362nd most common surname in Britain. Around 106 in a million people in Britain are named Dunbar.

Surname type: Location or geographical feature

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Scotland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alan
  • Andrew
  • David
  • Ian
  • James
  • John
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Robert
  • William

Female

  • Alison
  • Amanda
  • Carol
  • Catherine
  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Jacqueline
  • Julie
  • Karen
  • 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.

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