STIRLING
Stirling
Stirling is a prestigious Scottish surname with roots tracing back to the picturesque city of Stirling. Situated in Central Scotland, Stirling is known for its rich history and strategic importance in the country.
Origins:
The surname Stirling is of locational origin, derived from the Scottish city of Stirling. The name is believed to have originated from the Old English word "stir," meaning "dwelling place," combined with the postfix "-ling," denoting "descendant of."
History:
The Stirling family has a long and illustrious history, with individuals bearing this surname achieving prominence in various fields over the centuries. The Stirling name is closely associated with the Stirling Castle, a historically significant fortress that played a key role in Scotland's battles and politics.
Notable Individuals:
- Sir William Stirling-Maxwell: A prominent Scottish historical writer and art historian.
- Sir David Stirling: Founder of the Special Air Service (SAS), an elite British Army unit.
- Dame Margaret Stirling: Renowned British actress known for her work in theatre and film.
Variants:
Variants of the surname Stirling include Sterling, Starling, and Sterlinge.
Heraldic Symbol:
The Stirling family crest typically features symbols such as a star or a castle, signifying the family's historical ties to the city of Stirling.
Distribution:
The surname Stirling is relatively common in Scotland, particularly in the area around the city of Stirling. However, Stirlings can also be found in other parts of the United Kingdom and in countries with historical connections to Scotland.
Famous Stirling Castle:
Stirling Castle, perched atop Castle Hill, is one of Scotland's grandest castles and holds immense historical significance. It has been associated with many pivotal moments in Scottish history, making it an iconic symbol of the Stirling name.
Through its rich history, notable bearers, and ties to the city of Stirling, the surname Stirling stands as a proud emblem of Scottish heritage and legacy.
There are approximately 7,171 people named Stirling in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,316th most common surname in Britain. Around 110 in a million people in Britain are named Stirling.
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
- Andrew
- David
- Ian
- James
- John
- Mark
- Robert
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Caroline
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Fiona
- Helen
- Jane
- Margaret
- Mary
- Michelle
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.