Surname Robertson - Meaning and Origin

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P. Robertson

Robertson: What does the surname Robertson mean?

The surname Robertson is of Scottish origin and it essentially translates to "son of Robert". The "son" element is a common feature in many Scottish and English surnames, denoting descent. The name Robert itself comes from the Old German name Hrodebert, which is a compound of "hrod", meaning fame, and "berht", meaning bright or famous. Therefore, in a broader sense, Robertson could mean "son of the famous or bright one". This surname became popular in Scotland since Robert the Bruce, a famous Scottish king, led Scotland during the first war of Scottish Independence against England. Nowadays, Robertson is a common surname in many English-speaking countries.

Robertson: Where does the name Robertson come from?

The surname Robertson is derived from the Scottish patronymic term "MacRobert", which means "son of Robert". This name became widely used after the ascension of King Robert 'The Bruce' to the Scottish throne in the fourteenth century. It later Anglicized to Robertson. It is typically associated with Clan Donnachaidh, a Scottish clan from the Highlands, named after their ancestor, Duncan or "Donnachaidh" who fought alongside Robert the Bruce at the battle of Bannockburn in 1314.

Today, the surname Robertson remains particularly common in Scotland. The stronghold of the name remains within the region of Perthshire, which was the traditional center of Clan Donnachaidh. However, due to historic migration and the Highland Clearances in the 18th and 19th centuries, it is also prevalent in other parts of Britain, as well as countries once or currently part of the British Commonwealth, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. It is the 86th most common surname in the United States and the 52nd most common in England.

Variations of the surname Robertson

The surname Robertson is of Scottish origin and is formed from the given name Robert and the suffix "son", meaning son of Robert. It was first used during the Middle Ages. Variations of the surname Robertson can include Roberson, Robinson, Robeson, and Roberton. Among these, Robinson is the most common alternative. This surname might also be translated to numerous languages resulting in different yet related versions, such as Robertsson in Swedish, Robertsen in Danish and Norwegian, Roberts in Welsh, and Roberto in Italian, to name a few.

In Scotland, where 'Robertson' is amongst the most common surnames, it flourishes in many forms like MacRobbie, MacRobert, and Donnachaidh (originated from clan roots). Even different Gaelic versions such as Raibeartach can be present. It's important to note that although different, these surnames may come from similar geographical locations, cultural backgrounds, and may share a common original meaning.

As with most surnames, spelling can also change over time due to misspellings and phonetic variations, further adding to the scope of possible versions linked to Robertson.

Famous people with the name Robertson

• Phil Robertson: American businessman and television personality known for the hit show "Duck Dynasty."
• Robertson Davies: Renowned Canadian novelist and playwright.
• Cliff Robertson: Oscar-winning American actor.
• Pat Robertson: American media mogul and former Southern Baptist minister who served as host of the TV show "The 700 Club".
• Brittny Gastineau: Born as Brittny Amanda Erin Robertson, she is an American model and socialite.
• Si Robertson: American television personality, best known for his role in "Duck Dynasty."
• Lisa Robertson: Former host on the shopping channel QVC.
• Willie Robertson: CEO of Duck Commander, television personality, and businessman.
• Robbie Robertson: Canadian musician best known for his work as lead guitarist and primary songwriter for The Band.
• Korie Robertson: Reality television star known for "Duck Dynasty."
• Sadie Robertson: American actress and reality television star, daughter of Willie Robertson.
• Julian Robertson: American billionaire hedge fund manager and philanthropist.
• Brenton Thwaites: Australian actor, whose full name is Brenton Thwaites Robertson.
• Emily Robertson: Member of the Canadian country music group, The Rankin Family.
• Kimmy Robertson: American actress best known for her role in the TV series "Twin Peaks".

Other surnames

RobertsRobertsenRobertsson