Dunbar Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Dunbar come from? What does the surname Dunbar mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Dunbar and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Dunbar Origin: What does the last name Dunbar mean?
The surname Dunbar has its roots in Scotland, with records dating back to the early 11th century. The name is believed to have originated from Scotland, where it was prominently associated from the 11th to the 16th century. Over time, the Dunbar surname spread to other regions, with the United States seeing a significant increase in records by the 17th century. Today, the Dunbar surname is prevalent in the United States, as well as in various countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and South Africa.
According to YourRoots data, the Dunbar surname has a strong presence in the United Kingdom since the early 10th century. As the centuries progressed, the surname expanded globally, appearing in countries like France and establishing a firm presence in the United States by the 16th and 17th centuries. The Dunbar surname can now be found in diverse locations worldwide, showcasing its enduring legacy and widespread distribution across different cultures and regions.
Dunbar Last Name History: Where did the last name Dunbar come from?
Origin of Dunbar Surname: Where does the last name Dunbar originate from?
YourRoots data shows that the Dunbar surname first appeared in records from Scotland (United Kingdom) around the early 11th century. This information, however, only reflects the exact “Dunbar” spelling in YourRoots data and may not include other sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Dunbar: What does the Dunbar surname history look like in the early days?
The “Dunbar” surname maintained a strong association with Scotland from the 11th through the 16th century, according to YourRoots data. However, as the centuries progressed, the surname began to appear more frequently in other regions, indicating a gradual spread across the globe.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Dunbar surname today?
By the 17th century, the frequency of Dunbar surname records experienced a noticeable increase in the United States. This growth continued through the 18th and 19th centuries, eventually surpassing its frequency in Scotland, the surname's origin. Today, the “Dunbar” surname is prominent in the United States, while also appearing in a variety of regions worldwide. These include, but are not limited to, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and South Africa.
Explore Dunbar last name heritage and Dunbar surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Dunbar Surame?
Rockmond Dunbar
Rockmond Dunbar (born January 11, 1973) is an American actor known for his roles in popular TV series such as Soul Food, Prison Break, Sons of Anarchy, and The Mentalist. He has also appeared in films like Kiss Kiss Bang Bang and The Family That Preys. Dunbar is recognized for his talent in both television and film, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Outside of his acting career, he has contributed to the art world through exhibits and has been involved in various personal and legal matters, including a lawsuit against a major studio over a vaccination mandate.
Adrian Dunbar
Adrian Dunbar (born 1 Aug 1958) is an Irish actor, director, and singer known for his work in television and theatre. He co-wrote and starred in the BAFTA-nominated film "Hear My Song" and is best known for his role as Superintendent Ted Hastings in the hit BBC crime drama "Line of Duty." Dunbar has appeared in various films and TV shows, including "My Left Foot," "The Crying Game," and "Star Wars: The Phantom Menace." With a background in Catholic upbringing and education in London, Dunbar continues to be a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, showcasing his talent across different mediums.
Disappearance of Bobby Dunbar
Robert Clarence "Bobby" Dunbar (May 23, 1908 – n/a) was an American boy who went missing in 1912 and was believed to have been found eight months later. However, DNA testing in 2004 revealed that the boy raised as Bobby Dunbar was actually Bruce Anderson. The case became a famous example of mistaken identity and legal battles over custody, sparking national attention and controversy. Despite the revelation, the true fate of the real Bobby Dunbar remains a mystery.
Aynsley Dunbar
Aynsley Thomas Dunbar (born Jan 10, 1946) is an English drummer known for his work with iconic bands and musicians like Journey, Jefferson Starship, Frank Zappa, and Whitesnake. He has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and is recognized as one of the greatest drummers of all time by Rolling Stone. Dunbar's diverse career spanned across multiple genres, showcasing his versatility and talent behind the drum kit. Aside from his musical achievements, Dunbar faced personal tragedy with the loss of his youngest son to cancer in 2000. His legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.
Karen Dunbar
Karen Dunbar (born April 1, 1971) is a Scottish comedian, actress, and writer known for her work on the BBC Scotland sketch comedy series Chewin' the Fat and her own show, The Karen Dunbar Show. She has also lent her voice to the video game Still Wakes the Deep and has appeared in various theatre productions, including pantomimes and Shakespeare plays. Dunbar is openly lesbian and has been recognized for her contributions to Scotland's cultural life and the LGBTI community. Her comedic style and personal journey have been subjects of public interest, making her a well-respected figure in the entertainment industry.
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