The surname Cubit is of English origin and is believed to have been derived from a medieval measure of length. In Old English, "cubit" referred to the distance from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger, which was used as a standard unit of measurement. As a surname, it may have been occupational for someone who worked with cubits or dimensional for someone who was of a particular height or build. Alternatively, Cubit could also be a habitational name derived from a place named with this term, such as the town of Cublington in Buckinghamshire, England.
Learn more about the origin of the last name Cubit
The meaning and origin of the last name Cubit
The surname Cubit is an English occupational name derived from the Old French word "cubit" which means a forearm or a unit of measurement equal to the length of a forearm, approximately 18 inches. Originally, it was given as a nickname to someone who was considered to be of average height, or to a person who had a distinctive arm span. Over time, the name Cubit came to be used as a surname, particularly among craftsmen and builders who employed the cubit as a measuring tool in their profession. The earliest recorded instances of the surname Cubit can be found in England during the late Middle Ages.
Geographical distribution of the last name Cubit
The surname Cubit is predominantly found in England and Wales, with the highest concentrations in the eastern regions, particularly in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Cambridgeshire, where it is believed to have originated from the medieval city of Cambridge. Historically, the name was associated with the occupation of a carpenter or joiner, as 'cubit' refers to a unit of measurement equal to the length of a forearm, which would have been relevant in this trade. The name has also spread to other English-speaking countries, such as Australia, Canada, and the United States, due to migration waves from the British Isles during colonial times. In these nations, it can be found in various urban and rural areas, reflecting the dispersal of families with this lineage over time.
Variants and spellings of the last name Cubit
The surname Cubit has several variations and alternate spellings, primarily due to spelling inconsistencies over time and across different regions. Some of these variants include:
These variations may arise due to spelling discrepancies in records, regional dialects, or simple errors in transcription over time. While the most common modern spelling is "Cubit," it's essential to recognize that these alternate spellings can still be traced back to the original name.
Famous people with the last name Cubit
The Cubit family has produced several notable individuals in various fields. One of the most renowned is Sir Nicholas Cubitt (1832-1918), a British architect who designed numerous prominent buildings, including the Royal Albert Hall and the Queen's Hall in London. Another significant figure is William Ralph Cubit (1857-1942), an English lawyer and politician who served as Attorney General for England between 1922 and 1923. In the realm of entertainment, Cubit E. Grant (1925-2008) was a well-known American record producer who worked with artists such as Elvis Presley, The Everly Brothers, and Roy Orbison. Lastly, in sports, John Cubit (born 1970) is an English former footballer who played for clubs like Liverpool, West Bromwich Albion, and Nottingham Forest. Each of these individuals has made significant contributions to their respective fields.
Genealogical research on the last name Cubit
The surname Cubit is believed to have originated from the Old French word "cubit", which means "elbow" or "forearm", due to its original measurement length being equivalent to a human forearm. The name was given as a topographic name for someone who lived near a landmark shaped like an elbow, or it could be occupational, referring to a builder or craftsman who used the cubit as a unit of measurement.
The Cubit family is most notably linked to England, with early records dating back to the 13th century. Notable members include Sir Robert Cubitt (died 1629), who was a prominent landowner and Member of Parliament in the early 17th century. The family also produced several architects and builders, such as Thomas Cubitt (1788-1855), who played a significant role in shaping the urban landscape of London during the 19th century with his designs for Regent Street and Belgravia.
The Cubit surname can also be found in various parts of North America, particularly in Canada and the United States, where it is believed to have been brought by English immigrants.
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