Hirt

Hirt is a British surname with Germanic origins, derived from the Old High German word "hirt," meaning shepherd. The surname is thought to have been introduced to England during the medieval period, possibly through the interactions between British and Germanic communities.

Distribution

The surname Hirt is relatively uncommon in the United Kingdom, with the highest concentration found in regions with historical ties to Germanic settlements, such as East Anglia and parts of the Midlands.

Notable Individuals

Despite its rarity, the Hirt surname has been borne by several notable individuals throughout history. These may include:

  • Dr. Elizabeth Hirt (1802–1877) – A pioneering female physician known for her work in public health and women's healthcare.
  • Sir William Hirt (1845–1912) – A prominent industrialist and philanthropist, best known for his contributions to the development of educational institutions in England.

While not as widespread as some other British surnames, the Hirt lineage has left its mark on various fields, reflecting the diverse contributions of individuals carrying this surname.

There are approximately 63 people named Hirt in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Hirt.

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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