Surname map of TURNBULL

Surname: Turnbull

Origins of the surname Turnbull

The surname Turnbull has origins in the Scottish Borders and Northern England, with historical records dating back to the 13th century. It is widely believed to have originated as a descriptive or nickname surname based on a legendary event. According to tradition, a man named William of Bedrule saved the life of the Scottish King Robert the Bruce by turning a charging bull away from the monarch, an act of bravery that earned him the nickname “Turnebull,” which eventually evolved into Turnbull. The surname quickly became associated with the Scottish Borders clan Turnbull, a family that played a notable role in border conflicts and local governance. Early records show the surname appearing in Roxburghshire, Berwickshire, and other border counties, reflecting the family's long-standing presence in the region.

The meaning of the surname Turnbull is therefore closely tied to its legendary origin, essentially signifying “one who turns a bull.” While this may seem literal, it symbolized courage, strength, and loyalty, qualities highly prized in medieval Scottish society. Over time, the name became hereditary, passed down from one generation to the next, and came to identify not only individuals but an entire clan. The Turnbulls were known as a martial family, often involved in border skirmishes and local disputes, which reinforced the symbolic meaning of bravery inherent in the name.

The variants of the surname Turnbull include Turnebull, Turnebole, and Tournbulle. These variations reflect differences in spelling across centuries due to phonetic transcription, regional dialects, and the lack of standardized spelling in medieval records. While Turnbull remains the most common form today, historical documents occasionally record these alternative spellings, especially in church registers and early legal records.

Distribution of the surname Turnbull

The surname Turnbull is found predominantly in Scotland, particularly in the Borders region, but it has also spread to Northern England, including counties such as Northumberland and Cumberland. During the 17th and 18th centuries, members of the Turnbull family emigrated to other English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, contributing to the global presence of the surname. In the United States, Turnbull families became established primarily in the Mid-Atlantic states and later spread westward. Today, the surname continues to be associated with Scotland, but it is also relatively common among Scottish diaspora communities around the world, reflecting centuries of migration and settlement.

Famous people with the surname Turnbull

Among the famous people who bear the surname Turnbull, several have achieved prominence in politics, sports, and culture. Malcolm Turnbull served as the 29th Prime Minister of Australia, playing a significant role in national politics. In the arts, A. C. Turnbull was known for his contributions to literature and historical studies. The world of sports also features notable Turnbulls, including rugby players and athletes who have represented Scotland and other countries internationally. The surname Turnbull continues to carry its historical associations of courage and distinction, both through its legendary origins and through the accomplishments of those who bear it today.