Gilman

Origin and Meaning

Gilman is a surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English personal name "Gylyman", itself a combination of the elements "gȳ" meaning "joy" or "glee" and "mann" meaning "man". The name was recorded in medieval England primarily in the northern areas.

Historical Significance

The surname Gilman has been present in England for centuries, with records dating back to the 13th century. One notable figure bearing this surname was Daniel Coit Gilman (1831–1908), an American educator and the first president of Johns Hopkins University. Despite its American associations, the surname Gilman has maintained a presence in the United Kingdom.

Distribution and Modern Day

In contemporary times, the surname Gilman is relatively uncommon. However, individuals with this surname can still be found primarily in the United Kingdom and the United States. Variants of the name, such as Gillman or Gylman, also exist but may be less prevalent.

Coat of Arms

The Gilman family crest features a shield with a distinct design that may vary based on specific lineages and heraldic traditions. The coat of arms often includes elements symbolic of loyalty, strength, and heritage, reflecting the family's history and accomplishments.

Famous Individuals

While the surname Gilman may not be as widely recognised as more common names, it has been borne by numerous individuals who have made contributions in various fields. These include academics, artists, professionals, and individuals known for their achievements in diverse spheres.

Overall, the surname Gilman carries a heritage rich in history and tradition, linking individuals to their ancestors and the cultural landscape of the British Isles.

There are approximately 1,203 people named Gilman in the UK. That makes it roughly the 6,422nd most common surname in Britain. Around 18 in a million people in Britain are named Gilman.

Surname type: Occupational name

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Joseph
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Robert
  • Thomas

Female

  • Amy
  • Catherine
  • Christine
  • Claire
  • Denise
  • Elizabeth
  • Gillian
  • Helen
  • Janet
  • Joan
  • Joanne
  • Margaret
  • Rachel
  • Sarah

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.