Summary

The surname Barrow originated in England and Scotland. It is derived from the Middle English word 'barugh' or 'barwe', meaning a grove or thicket. The history of the Barrow surname can be traced back to the medieval period, and it was often associated with individuals who lived near a grove or thicket. Over time, the surname spread to various parts of the world through immigration and colonization.
There are
16801
Barrows in the USA
Barrow is the
2159th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Barrow

JohnBarrow

John Barrow (1764–1848) was an English mathematician, astronomer, and mathematician who held the position of Lucasian Professor of Mathematics at the University of Cambridge.

ClydeBarrow

Clyde Barrow (1909–1934) was an American criminal and the leader of the infamous Bonnie and Clyde gang, known for their robberies and murders during the Great Depression.

WilliamBarrow

William Barrow (1794–1869) was an English antiquary and bookseller, known for his extensive collection of books and manuscripts, which later formed the basis of the Barrow Collection at the British Library.

EvelynBarrow

Evelyn Barrow was a Jamaican singer and actress, best known for her work in the musical theater and as a member of the vocal trio The Maytals.

ThomasBarrow

Thomas Barrow is a fictional character from the British television series 'Downton Abbey,' portrayed by actor Rob James-Collier. He serves as the valet and later the butler at Downton Abbey.

SydBarrow

Syd Barrow is a British actor and comedian, known for his appearances in sketches on the television show 'Little Britain.'

DianeBarrow

Diane Barrow is an American politician who served as the Mayor of Stamford, Connecticut from 1995 to 2009, making her the longest-serving mayor in the city's history.

GeorgeBarrow

George Barrow (1911–1993) was an American jazz saxophonist and arranger, known for his work with prominent musicians such as Count Basie and Duke Ellington.

SarahBarrow

Sarah Barrow is a British diver who has represented Great Britain in numerous international competitions, including the Olympic Games and the Commonwealth Games.

ArthurBarrow

Arthur Barrow is an American musician and composer, best known for his work as a bassist in Frank Zappa's band and his collaborations with other notable artists.

Barrow Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Barrow' has several possible origins. It may be of English, Irish, or Scottish origin. In English, it is derived from the Middle English word 'barwe,' meaning 'barrow' or 'mound,' and may have been a topographic surname for someone who lived near such a feature. In Irish and Scottish, it is a variant of the Gaelic surname 'Mac an Bhaird' or 'Mac a' Bhaird,' meaning 'son of the poet' or 'son of the bard.'
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Barrow' is found in various countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. It is particularly common in areas with English, Irish, or Scottish heritage.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Barrow' include 'Barrows,' 'Barro,' 'Barret,' 'Barrott,' 'Barrowman,' 'Borrows,' and 'Burrows.'
Migration and ImmigrationPeople with the surname 'Barrow' have migrated and immigrated to various countries throughout history. English Barrows may have been part of the wave of English immigration to North America during the colonial period and subsequent centuries. Irish and Scottish Barrows may have migrated to other English-speaking countries during periods of economic or political upheaval, such as the Irish Potato Famine or the Highland Clearances.