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 Names

VariantEarls

Categories

Entry updated December 14, 2019