indicate the level to which a name has been verified.
Type Surname (from occupation)
Usage Medieval English (Rare)
Meaning & History
The name is pre 7th century Olde English and later Olde French. It derives from the word burri or berri, translating as a fortress or castle and means 'one who dwelt at the castle'. The suffix 'man' also indicates that it was job descriptive for a guard or keeper of the castle. The surname, with or without a suffix, can be seen locationally in the place name Bury, as found in several parts of the country or Berry Brow, a village in Yorkshire.