What does the surname Gilbert mean?

The surname Gilbert means "Bright pledge or famous hostage.". It is of Germanic/Norman French origin.

How common is the Gilbert surname?

There are approximately 500,000 people with the surname Gilbert in the United States.

Are there Gilbert soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 1,859 soldiers with the Gilbert surname appear in Civil War records.

Gilbert

Patronymic

Meaning

Bright pledge or famous hostage.

Etymology

From the Germanic elements 'gisil' (pledge, hostage) and 'beraht' (bright, famous), introduced to England by Norman conquerors. The name was popularized through Saint Gilbert and various medieval nobility.

About the Gilbert Surname

Gilbert originated as a given name before becoming a surname through patronymic usage. It has maintained steady popularity across multiple cultures and languages.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 500,000 bearers in the United States #143 most common surname

Rare Common

Widespread in English-speaking countries, France, and other European regions.

Gilbert Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Gilbert Surname

A.w. Gilbert

HONORABLE

Clinton W. Gilbert

Cass Gilbert

Dudley Gilbert

H.E. Gilbert

Henry Gilbert

Jean Gilbert

Ralph Gilbert

Honorable

S. Parker Gilbert

Quick Facts

Origin: Germanic/Norman French
Classification: Patronymic
Earliest Record: 11th century
Estimated Bearers: 500,000

War Records

1,859 soldiers with the Gilbert surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →