Garnet

Garnet is a British surname that has its origins in medieval England. It is derived from the Old French word "grenet" or "garnet", which means "a grain" or "small seed". The surname Garnet is believed to have been used to describe someone who was small or slight in stature.

The Garnet surname can be traced back to the 12th century, where it was first recorded in England. Over the centuries, the surname has spread throughout the British Isles and beyond, carried by families who have emigrated to countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Notable individuals bearing the surname Garnet include:

  • Henry Highland Garnet (1815-1882): An African American abolitionist, minister, and orator who was a prominent figure in the fight against slavery in the United States.
  • David Garnett (1892-1981): A British writer and publisher known for his novels and biographies.
  • Constance Garnett (1861-1946): An English translator renowned for her translations of Russian literature into English, including the works of Tolstoy, Dostoevsky, and Chekhov.

The Garnet surname has evolved over time, with variations such as Garnett and Gannett also found in historical records. Today, the surname Garnet continues to be borne by individuals around the world, many of whom take pride in their British heritage and ancestry.

There are approximately 83 people named Garnet in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Garnet.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alexandru
  • Calum
  • George
  • James
  • Kevin

Female

  • Angela
  • Claire
  • Pauline

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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