Last Name Turpin

The surname Turpin has French origins and is derived from various places named Turpin in France, such as Turpinville in Normandy or Turpin-et-Marcillat in Maine-et-Loire. The name may also be associated with a personal name of unknown origin, Ademarus Turpini, which appears in records dating back to the 12th century. It is possible that the surname may have originally been given as a nickname to someone who was from one of these places or had some characteristic associated with them. As with many surnames, it is difficult to pinpoint an exact origin without extensive historical research.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Turpin

The meaning and origin of the last name Turpin

The surname Turpin originates from France, specifically the region of Normandy and Picardy. It is an occupational name derived from the Old French "torpene," which means "potter" or "clay worker." Over time, the spelling has undergone various changes due to regional dialects and scribal errors, resulting in the numerous versions of Turpin found today, such as Tarpin, Torpein, and Torpain. The name may also be a patronymic surname derived from the given name Turpin, which is a short form of the Breton name Tudur Pen, meaning "noble head." Notable individuals bearing this name include Geoffrey de Turpin, a Crusader and chronicler who wrote the "Gesta Templariorum," and Tom Turpin, an American blues singer.

Geographical distribution of the last name Turpin

The surname Turpin is predominantly distributed across various regions in France and England, with significant concentrations in both countries. In France, it is most commonly found in the historical provinces of Normandy, Brittany, and the Bourgogne region. In England, Turpins are particularly numerous in the counties of Kent, Essex, and Norfolk, reflecting the influence of Norman settlers following the Conquest in 1066. Small populations can also be found in other parts of Europe, including Spain, Belgium, and Germany, as well as in North America, primarily in the United States. The spread of the Turpin name to other countries is often a result of historical migrations, such as the movement of French Huguenots (Protestants) during the religious conflicts of the 16th and 17th centuries or the waves of European immigration to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Variants and spellings of the last name Turpin

The surname Turpin has various spellings and variations, primarily due to differences in regional dialects and transcription errors over time. Some common spelling variants include Tarpin, Torpin, Torpine, de Turpin, Turpyn, and Turping. Other less common variations might include Turpein, Turpinne, Tyropin, or Torpene. These variations can be found across multiple countries due to emigration and name transliteration. It is essential to note that the correct spelling for a particular individual can only be determined by consulting reliable genealogical records.

Famous people with the last name Turpin

The Turpin family has had notable members in various fields. Philo T. Farnsworth Turpin was an American inventor known for inventing the first fully electronic television system. Born in 1906, he died at age 57 due to health complications but left a lasting impact on television technology. George Washington Turpin, born in 1843, served as a Union Army officer during the American Civil War and was awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery at the Battle of Nashville. In more recent times, David and Louise Turpin, born in the late 60s and early 70s respectively, made headlines due to their involvement in a highly publicized case of child abuse in California in 2018.

Genealogical research on the last name Turpin

The surname Turpin originates from France and is believed to have Norman roots. The name is derived from the Old French "torp" or "tourbe," meaning "marshy land." One of the earliest known bearers of this name was Robert de Toroigni, who lived in Normandy during the 12th century. Over time, variations of the name emerged, such as Toupin, Turping, and Turpen.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, many individuals with the surname Turpin immigrated to England and later to the American colonies. The family was well represented in both the French and Indian War and the American Revolution. Notable Turpins include John Turpin, a general during the Revolutionary War, and Thomas Turpin, who served as the Chief Justice of the Mississippi Territory in the early 19th century.

In modern times, the Turpin family has been noted for various achievements. For instance, Sir George Turpin was a distinguished British naval officer during World War II, while Josephine Turpin, an American, became the first female mayor of West Palm Beach, Florida in the late 20th century. The surname Turpin continues to be prevalent in both France and England, as well as in the United States.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Turpin"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

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 June 2025

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