Herbert

Herbert is a surname of English origin that is derived from the Old French personal name Heriber, composed of the Germanic elements "hari," meaning army, and "beraht," meaning bright or famous. The name was brought to England after the Norman Conquest of 1066 and has since become a prominent surname in British history.

Origins and History

The Herbert surname can be traced back to the 11th century, where individuals bearing this name were known for their loyalty and service to the English crown. The Herbert family played a significant role in English aristocracy, with members holding titles such as Earls of Pembroke and other important positions in society.

Notable Individuals

The Herbert family produced several notable individuals throughout history, including:

  1. William Herbert, 1st Earl of Pembroke - A prominent courtier and politician during the Tudor period, known for his close relationship with King Henry VIII.
  2. George Herbert - A renowned Welsh-born poet and priest, best known for his metaphysical poetry.
  3. Frank Herbert - An American science fiction writer, known for his famous work "Dune" and its sequels.

Legacy

The Herbert surname continues to be passed down through generations, with descendants bearing the name found in various parts of the world. The family's legacy of service, literature, and influence on English society has contributed to the enduring significance of the Herbert name in British history.

In conclusion, the Herbert surname represents a long and distinguished lineage of individuals who have made significant contributions to British society in various fields, leaving a lasting impact on history and culture.

There are approximately 20,709 people named Herbert in the UK. That makes it the 420th most common surname in Britain. Around 318 in a million people in Britain are named Herbert.

Surname type: From given name or forename

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
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Stephen

Female

  • Christine
  • Deborah
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Julie
  • Linda
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Patricia
  • Rebecca
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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