Type Surname (from nickname & from occupation)
Usage English
Pronounced Pron. /ˈɜɹl/(American English) /ˈɜːl/(British English)  [key·simplify]

Meaning & History

From the aristocratic title, which derives from Old English eorl meaning "nobleman, warrior". It was either a nickname for one who acted like an earl, or an occupational name for a person employed by an earl.

Related Names

Rooteorl
VariantEarls

Categories

Entry updated December 1, 2024