FROBISHER
Frobisher
Surname Origin: Frobisher is a British surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English personal name "Freobiscere." The name is believed to have originated in medieval England and has historical connections to the northern regions of the country.
Meaning and Etymology: The surname Frobisher is of occupational origin, denoting a "freedman" or a "one who serves a sheriff." The occupation of "freybischop" or "freed servant" was relatively common in medieval times, and individuals with this surname may have been associated with such roles.
Historical Significance: Notable individuals bearing the surname Frobisher include Sir Martin Frobisher (1535-1594), a renowned English seaman and explorer who made several voyages in search of the fabled Northwest Passage to the Far East. Frobisher's expeditions to present-day Canada in the 1570s were significant in early European exploration of the region.
Variants: Variants of the surname Frobisher include Frobesher, Frabiesher, and Frobishar. These variations may have arisen due to changes in spelling conventions over time or regional dialectal influences.
Distribution and Popularity: The surname Frobisher remains relatively uncommon in present-day Britain. It is primarily found in the northern regions of England, with clusters of individuals bearing the name residing in Yorkshire, Lancashire, and Cheshire. The name may also be found in other English-speaking countries, particularly those with historical ties to Britain.
Coat of Arms: The Frobisher family is associated with a coat of arms bearing symbols such as a ship, denoting the family's seafaring heritage, and other heraldic elements that reflect their historical identity and status. The coat of arms may vary depending on specific branches of the Frobisher family.
In conclusion, the British surname Frobisher has a rich historical background, associated with exploration, seafaring, and medieval English occupations. Despite its relative scarcity, the name has left a mark on British history through notable figures like Sir Martin Frobisher and continues to be a part of the country's diverse genealogical tapestry.
There are approximately 240 people named Frobisher in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around four in a million people in Britain are named Frobisher.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Brian
- David
- Derek
- Gary
- John
- Keith
- Martin
- Michael
- Nigel
- Paul
- Stephen
- Steve
- Stuart
Female
- Alison
- Dawn
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Joanne
- Margaret
- Marjorie
- Rebecca
- Sarah
- Susan
- Winifred