Brown Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Brown come from? What does the surname Brown mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Brown and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Brown Origin: What does the last name Brown mean?
The surname Brown is of English origin and is primarily descriptive, referring to a person with brown hair, complexion, or clothing. It is one of the most common surnames in English-speaking countries, with the earliest recorded instances dating back to East Lothian in Lowland Scotland. The name is derived from the Old English and Middle English words for "brown" or the Old French equivalent. It can also be a short form of compound names like Brungar or Brunwine.
YourRoots data indicates that the Brown surname has been present in the United Kingdom since the early 13th century, with a notable increase in records in the United States from the 16th century onwards. Today, the Brown surname is widespread not only in the US but also in countries like Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Jamaica. It has roots in Gaelic and German origins as well, showcasing its diverse etymology and global presence throughout history.
Brown Last Name History: Where did the last name Brown come from?
Origin of Brown Surname: Where does the last name Brown originate from?
The surname Brown first appears in YourRoots records in the United Kingdom, specifically in England, during the early 13th century. This reflects only the records available in the YourRoots database and pertains to the exact spelling "Brown," without considering any other sources or variations of the surname.
History of the Last Name Brown: What does the Brown surname history look like in the early days?
The "Brown" surname was consistently documented in England from the 13th to the 15th century. From the 16th century onwards, the United States emerged as a prominent location for the Brown surname. A marked increase in the frequency of records is observed in the United States during this period, according to the YourRoots database.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Brown surname today?
During the 16th century, the Brown surname started to become more prevalent in the United States and this trend continued until the 19th century. Although the frequency of the "Brown" surname in the United States has reduced in the 20th century according to the YourRoots database, it remains a common surname not just in the United States, but also in other parts of the world. The Brown surname is found in many countries today, including but not limited to the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Ireland and Scotland.
Explore Brown last name heritage and Brown surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Brown Surame?
Sterling K. Brown
Sterling Kelby Brown (born Apr 5, 1976) is an award-winning American actor known for his roles in popular TV series like "This Is Us" and "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel." He has also appeared in hit movies such as "Black Panther" and "Frozen II." Brown has received multiple Primetime Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe Award, and even a nomination for an Academy Award. With a diverse range of roles in both television and film, Brown has solidified his status as one of the most talented actors in Hollywood.
Chris Brown
Christopher Maurice Brown (May 5, 1989 - ) is an American singer, songwriter, dancer, and actor known for his pop and hip-hop-influenced R&B music. He has been dubbed the "King of R&B" and has been compared to Michael Jackson for his singing and dancing skills. Brown rose to fame with hits like "Run It!" and "Kiss Kiss", and has released successful albums like F.A.M.E. and Indigo. Despite personal controversies, he has won numerous awards and is a top-selling artist with a devoted fan base. Brown has also ventured into acting, appearing in films like "Stomp the Yard" and "Think Like a Man".
Jasmin Savoy Brown
Jasmin Savoy Brown (March 21, 1994 - ) is an American actress known for her roles in popular TV series like HBO's The Leftovers and ABC's For the People. She has also appeared in movies like Scream and Sound of Violence. Brown is recognized for her versatile acting skills and has gained a strong following for her performances. In addition to her acting career, she has also ventured into music with songs like "Orange Wine" and "goddamnit." Brown is a talented artist who continues to make waves in the entertainment industry.
Jim Brown
James Nathaniel Brown (February 17, 1936 – May 18, 2023) was an American football legend, civil rights activist, and actor. Known as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history, Brown played for the Cleveland Browns and won an NFL championship in 1964. He excelled in multiple sports, including lacrosse, basketball, and track and field. After retiring from football, he pursued a successful acting career, breaking barriers as Hollywood's first black action hero. Brown was also a prominent voice in the civil rights movement, advocating for racial equality and founding organizations to support minority communities. His impact on sports, entertainment, and social activism continues to inspire generations.
Yvette Nicole Brown
Yvette Nicole Brown (August 12, 1971 - ) is an American actress known for her roles in popular TV shows like NBC's Community, CBS's The Odd Couple, and ABC's The Mayor. She has also appeared in films such as Avengers: Endgame and voiced characters in video games like Minecraft: Story Mode. Brown has received acclaim for her acting and was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for her role in A Black Lady Sketch Show. Aside from her on-screen work, she has also hosted cosplay series and been a guest co-host on various talk shows.
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