Save Type Surname (from nickname & from occupation) Usage English Pronounced Pron. /ˈɜɹl/ [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 NamesDetails RooteorlVariantEarls Categories blues musicians, English nouns, Formula One drivers, given names, isograms, leadership, noble titles, warrior, word names