Urquhart Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Urquhart come from? What does the surname Urquhart mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Urquhart and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Urquhart Origin: What does the last name Urquhart mean?
The surname Urquhart is of Scottish origin and is a habitational name derived from four different places with the same name. The name comes from the Brythonic elements ar, meaning "on" or "by", and cardden, meaning "thicket". This surname has been associated with Scotland since the early 13th century and has remained closely tied to the country for centuries. YourRoots data confirms the presence of Urquhart family records in the United States, indicating its global spread over time.
YourRoots data also reveals that the Urquhart surname has a significant presence in Scotland and has expanded to countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. The name has a rich history dating back to the 13th century and has continued to be prominent in various regions across the world. The Urquhart surname reflects a strong Scottish heritage and has maintained its relevance in different countries, showcasing its enduring legacy and widespread influence.
Urquhart Last Name History: Where did the last name Urquhart come from?
Origin of Urquhart Surname: Where does the last name Urquhart originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Urquhart first appeared in records from Scotland around the early 13th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Urquhart spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Urquhart: What does the Urquhart surname history look like in the early days?
The Urquhart surname remained closely associated with Scotland from the 13th to the 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Urquhart family records in countries like the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Urquhart surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Urquhart surname grew significantly in the United States. The Urquhart surname remains prominent in Scotland. It appears in many countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.
Explore Urquhart last name heritage and Urquhart surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Urquhart Surame?
Francis Urquhart
Francis Ewan Urquhart (March 6, 1936 – January 2, 2023) was a fictional character in the British political thriller television series House of Cards. Portrayed by Ian Richardson, Urquhart is a ruthless and Machiavellian politician who rises from Chief Whip of the Conservative Party to become Prime Minister through treachery and deception. His catchphrase, "You might very well think that; I couldn't possibly comment," became iconic in political discussions. The character was adapted into Frank Underwood in the American version of House of Cards, portrayed by Kevin Spacey. Urquhart's complex and manipulative nature made him a memorable and controversial figure in TV history.
Roy Urquhart
Major-General Robert Elliot "Roy" Urquhart (28 Nov 1901 – 13 Dec 1988) was a British Army officer known for leading the 1st Airborne Division during the Battle of Arnhem in WWII. Despite heavy casualties, his division fought valiantly but ultimately had to withdraw. Urquhart also played a crucial role in the Allied reoccupation of Norway post-war. He received honors from both the Dutch and Norwegian governments for his leadership and service. After the war, he held various commanding roles before retiring. Urquhart's legacy as a dedicated military leader and hero of historic battles lives on in the annals of British military history.
Feargus Urquhart
Feargus Robert Urquhart is a Scottish-American video game designer and CEO of Obsidian Entertainment, known for his work on the Fallout series. He co-founded Obsidian Entertainment after leaving Interplay Entertainment, where he led Black Isle Studios. Urquhart has received recognition for his contributions to the gaming industry, including the Unsung Hero of the Year award from IGN's RPG Vault. He resides in West Irvine, California, with his wife Margo and their two children, Katie and Aidan.
Thomas Urquhart
Sir Thomas Urquhart (1611–1660) was a Scottish aristocrat, writer, and translator best known for his translation of French writer François Rabelais to English. Born into a noble family, Urquhart led a colorful life that included participating in Royalist uprisings and being taken prisoner after the Battle of Worcester. Despite facing financial challenges and political turmoil, he managed to publish works on mathematics, genealogy, and a universal language. His most celebrated work, his translation of Rabelais, is praised for its exuberance and fidelity to the original text. Urquhart's life ended in mystery, with a legend suggesting he died laughing upon hearing news of the Restoration of Charles II.
Brian Urquhart
Major Sir Brian Edward Urquhart (Feb 28, 1919 – Jan 2, 2021) was a British Army officer, politician, and writer known for his significant role in founding the United Nations. He served as its Under-Secretary-General for Special Political Affairs, contributing to conflict resolution and peacekeeping efforts. Urquhart's military experience and dedication to global peace were instrumental in shaping the early years of the UN. His legacy continues to inspire those working towards international cooperation and diplomacy.
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