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Last Name Dawber

What is the origin of the last name Dawber?

The surname Dawber is of Old English origin and is derived from the Middle English word "dawber," which means "plasterer." This surname may have originally been an occupational name given to someone who worked as a plasterer or mason. It is also possible that the name could have been used as a nickname for someone who was fond of using or working with plaster. The name Dawber is primarily found in the north of England, particularly in the counties of Lancashire and Yorkshire.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Dawber

The meaning and origin of the last name Dawber

The surname Dawber is of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English word "daw," meaning "dove," and the suffix "bera," which could either refer to a dweller or someone who bears something. Therefore, the surname Dawber likely originated as a descriptive name for someone who tended doves or had a gentle and peaceful demeanor like a dove. It is believed that the surname was first used in Lancashire, England, where the Dawber family held a seat as Lords of the Manor. Over time, the surname spread to different regions of England and eventually to the United States and other English-speaking countries through immigration. Today, the surname Dawber can be found in various parts of the world, with individuals proudly carrying on the legacy of their ancestors.

Geographical distribution of the last name Dawber

The surname Dawber has a relatively limited geographical distribution, primarily found in the United Kingdom and the United States. In the UK, the surname is most commonly found in the north-western region, particularly in Lancashire. This is likely due to historical migration patterns and the concentration of the Dawber family in this area. In the United States, the surname is more scattered across various states, with higher concentrations in states like Texas, California, and Florida. While the name may not be as common as some other surnames, those who bear the Dawber surname can trace their ancestry back to these regions and potentially uncover connections to their relatives in the UK or other parts of the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Dawber

The last name Dawber has several variations and spellings, depending on regional dialects and historical records. Some common variations include Dauber, Dawbur, Daber, Dabur, Dabber, and Dauber. These variations may have originated from different sources, such as misspellings in official documents, phonetic translations between languages, or changes made by individuals or families over time. Regardless of the spelling, the surname Dawber likely has its roots in Old English, with possible meanings related to occupation (such as "plasterer" or "mud mixer") or physical appearance (such as "dark hair" or "swarthy complexion"). Today, individuals with the last name Dawber can be found all around the world, each spelling reflecting a unique branch of the family tree.

Famous people with the last name Dawber

One famous person with the last name Dawber is Pam Dawber, an American actress best known for her role as Mindy McConnell in the hit television series "Mork & Mindy." The show, which aired from 1978 to 1982, catapulted Dawber to fame and earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy. Since then, Dawber has appeared in various other television shows and films, including the critically acclaimed mini-series "I'll Take Manhattan" and the popular sitcom "My Sister Sam." Beyond her acting career, Dawber is also known for her marriage to actor Mark Harmon, with whom she has two children. Pam Dawber remains a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, with her work continuing to inspire audiences around the world.

Genealogical research on the last name Dawber

The Dawber surname is of English origin, with its roots dating back to the medieval period. The name is believed to have derived from the Old English personal name "Daba," meaning "the beloved one." The Dawber family history can be traced to Lancashire, where they held a family seat as Lords of the Manor. Over time, the Dawber name spread throughout England and to other parts of the world through immigration and migration. A notable figure with the Dawber surname is British actor and comedian Robert Dawber. Today, those with the Dawber surname can be found in various countries, with a concentration in the United Kingdom and the United States. Genealogical research into the Dawber family can provide insights into their ancestral origins, movements, and accomplishments throughout history.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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