GENTLEMAN
Gentleman
The British surname Gentleman is of medieval origin, deriving from the Middle English word "gentilman," which is a combination of the Old French "gentil," meaning noble or high-born, and "man." The surname was likely originally used to denote a man of noble or gentle birth.
Historically, the term "gentleman" referred to a man of wealth and social standing, often associated with land ownership and a coat of arms. It denoted a rank above the common folk but below the nobility. Over time, the term evolved to describe a man who conducted himself with propriety, politeness, and good manners, irrespective of his social status.
The surname Gentleman can be found in historic records across various regions of England, indicating that it was fairly widespread. Families bearing this surname may have had connections to the gentry class or may have been employed in service to nobility.
Today, the surname Gentleman is rare but still persists in some parts of the United Kingdom and among the British diaspora. It serves as a reminder of the historical significance of the term "gentleman" in English society and the values associated with it.
There are approximately 390 people named Gentleman in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around six in a million people in Britain are named Gentleman.
Surname type: Occupational name
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
- Alexander
- Christopher
- Damian
- David
- George
- James
- John
- Justin
- Peter
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Alison
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Irene
- Jacqueline
- Judith
- Karen
- Kirsty
- Kristina
- Margaret
- Nicola
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Sheena