Surname Basset - Meaning and Origin

Tracing My Basset Lineage: Fascinating Revelations From the IGENEA DNA Test

My IGENEA DNA test's results are back. They reveal exhilarating historical and genetic revelations about the Basset surname present in my family line. They trace conjectural origin to Proto-Indo-Europeans and highlight a significant genetic diversity within the lineage, indicating widespread ancestral migration and intermixing. The beauty of human genetics takes form as the tale of my family unfolds with every revelation.

S. Basset

Basset: What does the surname Basset mean?

The last name Basset is of French origin and it literally means "low" or "short." The name is thought to have originally been a nickname for a short or small person. It is derived from the Old French "bas," meaning "low," with the diminutive suffix "et." The name was brought to England by the Normans in the 11th century during the Norman Conquest. It can also be found in early records as Bassett. In due course of time, the surname Basset has evolved with various spellings depending on the regions and countries. Notable people with the surname Basset include Richard Basset, a medieval English judge, and Marilyn Basset, a scientist known for her contributions to the field of geology. It is also used as a first name in some cultures.

Basset: Where does the name Basset come from?

The last name 'Basset' has French origins, derived from the Old French 'bas', meaning 'low', often given as a nickname to someone who was short in stature. The Normans brought it to England and Wales during the Norman Conquest in 1066. Although it initially started as a personal name, over time, it became a surname passed down generations.

The Basset family held a significant role in British history, with members serving as rulers, sheriffs, and military leaders, particularly during the Middle Ages. They also possessed estates in several counties including Cornwall, Staffordshire, and Norfolk. As such, the name Basset is more common in these regions in the UK.

Today, the surname Basset remains fairly prevalent in England and Wales. It is also found in French-speaking countries like France and parts of Canada. Its global spread over centuries also makes it somewhat common in countries like the United States and Australia. In many areas, however, it is not a common surname and may be considered somewhat unique.

Variations of the surname Basset

The surname Basset is considered an English and French origin name, denoting someone of short stature. Variants of the surname Basset include Bassett, Bassetts, Bastet, Basnett, Bassitt, Bassetto, and Besset. Variations like Bassett and Besset can be found in different regions of France. Additionally, there are also anglicized spellings such as Bassit, Bashett, and Boshitt that exist. Some extended variations of the surname like Bassett-Lowke or Bassett-Smith could be found due to intermarriage.

The surname Basset could also be a locational surname derived from regions having the same name in France like Basset in Normandy or derived from Old French ‘bas’ meaning low or 'basset' meaning 'rather low'.

As in many cases of surname migration and translation, the spelling, interpretation, and pronunciation of the name changed as families moved from region to region or adopted new languages. Thus, multiple variants for the surname Basset emerged over time and space. Still, the different spellings mentioned do connect to the same basic root and meaning of the surname Basset, denoting someone of short stature.

Famous people with the name Basset

• Angela Bassett: An American actress and activist known for her roles in films like "What's Love Got To Do With It," "Boyz n The Hood," and "Black Panther."
• Ralph Bassett: A 19th-century English antiquary and writer.
• Dave Bassett: English soccer manager and former player.
• Saul Bassett: An Australian politician.
• Jamal Bassett: English actor known for television shows such as "Killing Eve."
• Joe B. Basset: A British film producer.
• James Basset: A 16th-century English military commander.
• Richard Basset: A 12th-century English judge and sheriff.
• John Bassett: Canadian television executive and newspaper publisher.
• E. Preston Bassett: An American engineer and inventor.
• William Basset: A 16th-century English clergyman.
• Francis Basset: An 18th-century British politician.
• Arthur Basset: A 17th-century English politician and landowner.
• Charlotte Bassett: British actress known for her role in the television series "The Worst Witch."
• Karen Bassett: A Canadian stage actress.

Other surnames

BasseBassermannBassettBassette