HEPBURN
Hepburn
Hepburn is a Scottish and Northern English surname of ancient origin, believed to be derived from the Old English personal name "Haepel" and the word "burna," meaning "stream." The name is most commonly associated with the Hepburn family of Scotland, which has historical ties to the English county of Northumberland.
Origin and History
The Hepburn family is known to have held lands in the Lothian region of Scotland since at least the 12th century, with strongholds at Hailes Castle and Bothwell Castle. The family played a significant role in Scottish history, with members serving as knights, courtiers, and even regents.
One of the most notable figures of the Hepburn family was James Hepburn, 4th Earl of Bothwell, who was the third husband of Mary, Queen of Scots. Bothwell's role in the controversy surrounding the murder of Mary's second husband, Henry Stuart, Lord Darnley, and his subsequent marriage to Mary led to his downfall and the eventual imprisonment and abdication of Mary.
Distribution and Present Day
The surname Hepburn is relatively rare, with most occurrences found in Scotland and Northern England. The name has spread to other English-speaking countries through migration and settlement.
Today, individuals bearing the surname Hepburn can be found across the globe, with notable figures including the renowned British actress Audrey Hepburn and the Australian actress and activist Katherine Hepburn.
Coat of Arms
The Hepburn coat of arms features a shield with a red chevron between three silver buckles on a black background. The crest consists of a bird with a key in its beak, symbolising vigilance and guardianship.
Overall, the surname Hepburn carries with it a rich history of nobility, intrigue, and cultural significance, making it a notable and respected name in British genealogy.
There are approximately 5,948 people named Hepburn in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,594th most common surname in Britain. Around 91 in a million people in Britain are named Hepburn.
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
- Alexander
- Andrew
- Brian
- David
- Ian
- James
- John
- Paul
- Robert
- Stephen
- William
Female
- Alison
- Amanda
- Angela
- Anne
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Jacqueline
- Jean
- Jennifer
- Margaret
- Mary
- Michelle
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.