Surname Bisset - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'B'
Bisset: What does the surname Bisset mean?
The last name Bisset originates from French Normandy and was brought to England during the Norman Conquest in 1066. The name itself is believed to have derived from the Old French word "bisset," meaning "weedy area," suggesting the original holders of the name likely inhabited or came from an area of overgrown land. Some other sources suggest it may have been based on a nickname for someone considered to be placed in a lower position or circumstance. The surname became common in Scotland after William the Conqueror's reign in England, when several French were granted land in Scotland. The Bissets were reputedly a noble and prominent family in the regions of Beauly and Ross in Scotland. Therefore, Bisset represents a historic family name with deep European roots and carries indications of geographic and social statuses.
Order DNA origin analysisBisset: Where does the name Bisset come from?
The last name Bisset is believed to have French origins, asserted to have appeared first in Normandy. The family moved to England following the Norman Conquest in 1066 and was later granted lands in Scotland by King David I in the 12th century. The name derived from a woodcutter or forester, originating from the Old French word ‘bisson’ or ‘buisson,’ meaning ‘shrub’ or ‘bush.'
Today, the Bisset surname is most common in Scotland, given the family's historical association with the country. The Bisset family was granted lands in Scottish counties Aberdeenshire and Ross, and over the centuries, the BFisset surname has continued to be prominent here, at times being used as a title for the baronies of Lovat and Beaufort. Outside of Scotland, the Bisset surname can be found throughout the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United States of America, and South Africa. This is primarily due to historical migrations from Scotland to these areas.
Variations of the surname Bisset
The surname Bisset is believed to originate from France before appearing in England after the Norman Conquest. The name may have several variants, both in spelling and in form. These variants include Bissett, Bissette, Bissitt, Besset, Bessett, and Bessette.
The name may have been originally spelled as "de Bisset," implying a geographical origin or connection with a location of that name in France. Over time and with migration, the "de" might have been dropped or modified in different regions and dialects.
Surnames that might be of the same origin due to geographical or familial connections include Beauchamp since historically, the Bisset family eventually merged through marriage with the Beauchamp lineage. It's worth noting that like many surnames, the exact variations and origins of Bisset can vary immensely due to factors such as geographical location, linguistic changes, and individual or familial preferences in spelling or pronunciation. Therefore, while all of these names might be connected, it's also possible that some have developed independently of others.
Similar surnames to Bisset from other cultures may encompass Busset, Bussett, or Boisset, all of which have roots in various French-speaking regions.
Famous people with the name Bisset
- Jacqueline Bisset: This British actress is famously known for her roles in classic films like "Bullitt" and "Airport." She received a Golden Globe for her role in "Dancing on the Edge."
- Amelia Bisset: She is a British actress known for her roles in "Spectre," "Tales from the Crypt," and "The Land That Time Forgot."
- Susan Bisset: Although not as popular as Jacqueline, she is yet another British actress known for her role in "Pushing Daisies."
- Jane Bisset: Jane is an Australian actress, best known for her work in the theatre scene.
- Jim Bisset: He is an Australian who was famous for his skill as a hand wooden surfboard maker in the 1940s and 50s.
- Lucien Bisset: A French fashion designer, Lucien Bisset gained popularity in the mid-20th century.
- Peter Bisset: Peter was a New Zealand rugby player who became a local celebrity for his sports performance.
- Alexander Bisset: He was a Scottish nobleman from the medieval period, whose fame comes from Scottish history. Most popular of these personalities is definitely Jacqueline Bisset, who has a well-established career in the Hollywood film scene.