Origin & Meaning of the Webster Surname
What does the last name Webster mean?
The surname Webster carries the meaning "One who does." It is derived from the Old English language and has been passed down through generations, reflecting the occupations, locations, or characteristics of early bearers of the name. With 72,625 bearers in the 2010 US Census, Webster ranks as the #453 most common surname in the United States.
Where does the surname Webster come from?
The Webster surname has its roots in English heritage. Names of English origin often reflect the cultural, linguistic, and historical traditions of the communities where they first appeared. Over centuries, migration and cultural exchange have spread the Webster name far beyond its original homeland.
Language of Origin
The linguistic roots of Webster trace back to Old English. Understanding the original language helps decode the meaning and evolution of the name from its earliest recorded forms to the modern spelling used today.
Quick Facts
| Surname | Webster |
|---|---|
| Meaning | One who does |
| Origin | English |
| Language | Old English |
| US Rank (2010) | #453 |
| US Count (2010) | 72,625 |
| Per 100K People | 24.62 |
| First Letter | W |
Ethnic Distribution of Webster
According to the US Census, the Webster surname is distributed across the following ethnic groups. This data reflects self-reported ethnicity among 72,625 Americans with the Webster last name.
| Ethnicity | Percentage |
|---|---|
| White | 73.5% |
| Black | 19.75% |
| Hispanic | 2.51% |
| Asian/Pacific Islander | 0.62% |
| Native American | 1.38% |
| Two or More Races | 2.25% |
Popularity of Webster Over Time
Comparing US Census data from 2000 and 2010 shows how the Webster surname has changed in prevalence.
The number of Americans with the Webster surname increased by 2,502 between 2000 and 2010.
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Other English Surnames
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Frequently Asked Questions About Webster
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