Selbie Surname

The History of the Selbie Surname

The surname Selbie has a long and fascinating history that spans several countries around the world. The name is believed to have originated in Scotland, where it is most commonly found, but it has also spread to other English-speaking countries such as England, Canada, Australia, and the United States. In this article, we will explore the origins and distribution of the Selbie surname, as well as some notable individuals who have borne this name.

Origins of the Selbie Surname

The origin of the Selbie surname is believed to be Scottish, with the name likely derived from the Old English personal name "Saebi," meaning "sea," and the Old English word "leah," meaning "wood" or "clearing." This suggests that the name may have originally been given to someone who lived near a wood or clearing by the sea. The surname is first recorded in Scotland in the 14th century, with variations such as Selby and Selbe being used interchangeably.

Over time, the Selbie surname spread to other English-speaking countries, such as England, Canada, Australia, and the United States. It is believed that the name was brought to these countries by Scottish immigrants seeking new opportunities and a better life. As a result, the Selbie surname can now be found in various regions around the world, each with its own unique history and characteristics.

Distribution of the Selbie Surname

According to data from various sources, the incidence of the Selbie surname is highest in Scotland, where it is most commonly found. In fact, Scotland has the highest incidence of the Selbie surname out of all the countries where it is present, with 194 individuals bearing the name. This is followed by England, Canada, New Zealand, the United States, Australia, Singapore, Switzerland, Wales, and various other countries with smaller numbers of individuals with the Selbie surname.

Despite the relatively small number of individuals with the Selbie surname in some countries, the name still holds significance for those who bear it. Many individuals may take pride in their Scottish heritage and the history of the Selbie surname, as well as the connections they may have to other regions where the name is present.

Notable Individuals with the Selbie Surname

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals who have borne the Selbie surname and made a lasting impact on their communities and the world. One such individual is John Selbie, a Scottish clergyman and academic who served as Principal of St Mary's College, St Andrews, in the early 17th century.

In addition to John Selbie, there have been several other individuals with the Selbie surname who have excelled in various fields, such as the arts, sciences, and business. Their contributions have helped to shape the world we live in today and have added to the legacy of the Selbie surname.

Overall, the Selbie surname has a rich and diverse history that spans several countries and centuries. From its origins in Scotland to its spread to other English-speaking countries, the name has left a lasting impression on the world and continues to be an important part of many individuals' identities. Whether you bear the Selbie surname yourself or are simply interested in learning more about it, the history and distribution of this name offer a fascinating glimpse into the past and the present.

The surname Selbie into the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it can be done to find African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Similar takes place in the case of Selbie, which as you can corroborate, it can be said that it is a surname which can be found in the majority of the countries of this globe. In the same way you can find nations in which certainly the thickness of people because of the surname Selbie is higher than in other countries.

The map associated with Selbie surname

1. Scotland (194)
2. England (120)
3. Canada (112)
4. New Zealand (51)
5. United States (50)
6. Australia (21)
7. Singapore (13)
8. Switzerland (6)
9. Wales (2)
10. United Arab Emirates (1)
11. China (1)
12. Spain (1)
13. Indonesia (1)
14. Norway (1)
15. Thailand (1)
16. South Africa (1)