Summary

The surname Burns has Scottish origins and is derived from the Gaelic word 'bhearnais', meaning 'gap' or 'top of the hill'. It is a common surname in Scotland and has a rich history associated with various prominent figures who bore this name.
There are
165925
Burnss in the USA
Burns is the
155th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Burns

RobertBurns

Robert Burns was a Scottish poet and lyricist who is widely regarded as the national poet of Scotland. He is best known for his poems and songs such as 'Auld Lang Syne' and 'To a Mouse.'

GeorgeBurns

George Burns was an American comedian, actor, and writer who had a career spanning over 75 years. He was known for his wit, cigar-smoking persona, and his partnership with his wife, Gracie Allen.

KenBurns

Ken Burns is an American filmmaker and documentarian known for his extensive and acclaimed documentaries on various subjects, including 'The Civil War,' 'Baseball,' and 'The Vietnam War.'

EdwardBurns

Edward Burns is an American actor, writer, and director known for independent films such as 'The Brothers McMullen' and 'She's the One.' He has also appeared in mainstream films and television shows.

MontgomeryBurns

Montgomery Burns is a fictional character from the animated television series 'The Simpsons.' He is the wealthy and villainous owner of the Springfield Nuclear Power Plant.

JohnBurns

John Burns was a British politician and trade unionist who served as a Member of Parliament and held various government positions. He was known for his advocacy of workers' rights and social reforms.

TimBurns

Tim Burns is an American attorney and politician who has run for various political offices, including the Wisconsin Supreme Court and the United States Congress.

CatherineBurns

Catherine Burns is an American actress who is best known for her role in the film 'Last Summer,' for which she received critical acclaim and a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.

GavinBurns

Gavin Burns is a former professional ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Edmonton Oilers and the Hartford Whalers.

ElizabethBurns

Elizabeth Burns was a Scottish poet and writer known for her poetry collections, including 'The Gift of Light' and 'Held.' She received critical acclaim for her insightful and lyrical poems.

Burns Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Burns' is of Scottish and English origin. It is derived from the Middle English word 'burne,' meaning 'stream' or 'river.' The name likely originated as a topographic name for someone who lived near a stream or river.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Burns' is most commonly found in Scotland, particularly in the counties of Ayrshire, Lanarkshire, and Renfrewshire. It is also found in England, especially in the northern counties.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Burns' include 'Barnes' and 'Byrne.'
Migration and ImmigrationThere is evidence of migration and immigration of people with the surname 'Burns' to countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, particularly during periods of Scottish and English emigration.