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      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Bourne

      Origin

      English, Possibly French

      Meaning

      Derived from A Surname, Stream or Brook

      Variations

      Osbourne, Melbourne, Colbourne
      The name Bourne is derived from the Old English word burna, which translates to stream or brook. It can also be linked to the Old French term bourne, indicating a boundary or a river. As a surname, it typically denotes someone who lived by a stream or a brook, highlighting the geographical significance of water bodies in the naming practices of English heritage. The name signifies not only a physical location but also a strong connection to nature, indicating the importance of natural landmarks in early community life.

      Historically, the name Bourne can be traced back to medieval England, where surnames were commonly adopted to denote lineage, occupation, or geographical features. The usage of Bourne as a surname became prevalent with the advent of hereditary names during the 12th century. Various places in England, such as Bourne in Lincolnshire, are believed to have contributed to the surname’s dissemination. Throughout historical records, individuals bearing the Bourne surname have appeared in various contexts, from local governance to notable figures like Sir Frederick Bourne, who was involved in American business in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

      In contemporary times, the name Bourne remains more than just a surname; it is also widely recognized due to its popular culture associations, particularly with the fictional character Jason Bourne, created by author Robert Ludlum. This character, featured in novels and a successful film franchise, has brought the name into the realm of global recognition, merging it with themes of espionage and adventure. Additionally, Bourne continues to be a common place name and surname in various English-speaking countries, maintaining its relevance in both personal and geographical contexts. The name embodies a rich historical background while also adapting to modern narratives and interpretations.

      Based on our records...

      Russell

      Russell

      This is the most common surname associated with Bourne.
      Elizabeth

      Elizabeth

      This is the most common name of those married to a Bourne.
      Bourne

      Bourne

      This is the most common name for a child of a Bourne.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

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      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1761 is when there were the most people born with the first name Bourne.

      Explore the origins of another name.