Last Name Corbett

Learn more about the origin of the last name Corbett

The meaning and origin of the last name Corbett

The surname Corbett has a fascinating origin and meaning. It is derived from the Middle English word "corbet," which in turn was borrowed from Old French "corbet" or "corbet(t)e." The term was used to describe someone who wore a particular type of headdress known as a "coroubet," which was a hat with a small crown. In this context, the surname Corbett was likely given to someone who either made or wore such headgear. The surname Corbett has noble origins, linked to various notable families and individuals throughout history. One prominent example is the Corbetts of Caus, an influential English family who held vast estates in the county of Shropshire. They played significant roles in the country's politics and society for centuries. Another distinguished Corbett is Richard Corbett, a British politician who is currently a Member of the European Parliament. Overall, the surname Corbett carries a rich history and is associated with individuals of diverse backgrounds.

Geographical distribution of the last name Corbett

The last name Corbett is predominantly found in the United Kingdom and Ireland, where it originated. In the UK, the name is most commonly associated with England, particularly in counties such as Lancashire, Yorkshire, and Northumberland. It is also found in significant numbers in Scotland, particularly in areas like Lanarkshire and Ayrshire. In Ireland, Corbett is most prevalent in the province of Munster, with notable concentrations in counties Clare, Limerick, and Tipperary. This is likely due to historical migration patterns and the influence of the Anglo-Norman settlement in the region. Outside of the British Isles, the surname Corbett can also be found in countries with historical connections to the UK, such as Canada, Australia, and the United States. These regions received significant immigration from the UK, leading to the spreading of the Corbett name across their territories. Furthermore, due to modern global migration, individuals with the surname Corbett can now be found in various parts of the world, indicating a broader and more diverse geographical distribution.

Variants and spellings of the last name Corbett

The last name Corbett has various spellings and variations that can be found throughout history. Some different spellings include Corbet, Corbitt, Corbettson, Corbit, and Corburt. These variations may have originated from different regions or from the evolution of language and surnames over time. The name Corbett has its roots in England and Scotland and is derived from the Old French word "corbet," meaning raven or dark-haired. It is an occupational surname that was typically given to someone who worked as a corbie taker or corbie hunter, which referred to a person who caught and trained ravens. Over the years, individuals with the last name Corbett have migrated to different parts of the world, which has resulted in the existence of these spelling variations. Regardless of the spelling, Corbett remains a distinctive and recognizable surname with a rich historical background.

Famous people with the last name Corbett

Famous people with the last name Corbett include some notable figures from different fields. Jim Corbett (1875-1955) was a British-Indian hunter-turned-conservationist widely recognized for his efforts in protecting endangered Bengal tigers in India. His books, such as "Man-Eaters of Kumaon," documented his thrilling encounters with these dangerous big cats. John Corbett (b. 1961) is an American actor known for his roles in popular TV series like "Northern Exposure" and "Sex and the City," as well as movies like "My Big Fat Greek Wedding." He has established himself as a versatile and beloved TV and film actor. Ron Corbett (b. 1961) is a Canadian politician who served as the mayor of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and had a significant influence on the city's recovery efforts after it was devastated by flooding in 2008. These Corbetts have all made their mark within their respective fields, leaving a lasting legacy and influencing those around them.

Genealogical research on the last name Corbett

The surname Corbett has its origins in the ancient Celtic culture of Ireland. It is an anglicized version of the Gaelic name "MacCorbáin," meaning "son of Corbán." The name Corbán is derived from the Gaelic word "corb," meaning a raven. The Corbett clan is believed to have settled in County Cork, where they were prominent landowners and held positions of influence. Over time, the Corbett lineage spread throughout Ireland and the United Kingdom, with significant concentrations in counties Clare, Tipperary, and Limerick. Historical records indicate that the Corbett family played a role in various significant events, including the Battle of Clontarf in 1014, where they fought alongside the High King of Ireland against Viking invaders. In the 17th and 18th centuries, many Corbetts migrated to the North American colonies, particularly to New England and Virginia, where they established successful settlements and contributed to the growth of these regions. Today, the name Corbett is found worldwide, with descendants of the clan cherishing their Celtic roots and the noble history associated with the surname.