Surname Tolber - Meaning and Origin

Tolber: What does the surname Tolber mean?

The surname Tolber is of English origin. However, its exact meaning is not well documented or known. Surnames often relate to occupation, place of origin, ancestor's personal characteristics, or patronage, but no specific information is available for the surname 'Tolber'. Like many other English surnames, it could be a transformation or variant of another surname which has over time changed due to relocation, transcription errors, or other factors. Therefore, it can be challenging to extract a specific meaning without comprehensive historical data. As with most surnames, individuals with the Tolber surname can be found dispersed widely, particularly in English-speaking countries. It's best to trace family history for a more accurate understanding of this surname's origin and significance.

Tolber: Where does the name Tolber come from?

The last name Tolber is predominantly seen in Scandinavia today. While it may be found in other countries as well, the largest concentrations are in Sweden and Norway. The name likely originated from the Old Norse given name Þólbrandr, which meant thunder-branch.

The earliest known record of the surname is from 1618, when Olaf Tolberg was recorded as living in Oslo, Norway. By the 19th century, the name had spread throughout the entire country. In addition to being common in Norway, Tolber is also found in Sweden and Finland.

The Tolber surname is often found in Swedish surnames ending in -berg and -ander, both of which signify a place of birth or ancestry. Tolber families have also been known to change the spelling of their surname over the years. It is sometimes seen as Toftbjerger, Tolbus and Tolborg, among other variations.

In the present day, the Tolber surname can be found in both Norway and Sweden, although the largest concentration is still found in Norway. It is also slowly beginning to spread to other countries, such as Australia and the United States.

Variations of the surname Tolber

The surname Tolber has a few different variants, spellings, and surnames of the same origin. The most common variant of the surname is Tolbert, which has been in use since at least the 15th century. Tolbirt, Tollbert, Tolbirt, and Toulbert are other variations often found in various records.

The spelling Taulbee can also be found in some records. It is a regional spelling variation of the name originating in East Kent, England. There are also a few Americanized versions of the name, such as Tolliver, Tolivar, and Tollivar.

Tolbert is a patronymic name derived from the medieval and Middle English given name Tolbere or Tolleveare. Other derivatives include Tolberd, Tolbers, Tolbar, and Tilbury.

In Scotland, the variants Tolland, Tolend, Toland, Tolin, Tolind, and Tolin are often found. It is believed that these Scottish derivatives are derived from a place name in Scotland, and that the original family carrying the surname came from this area.

The surname Tolman is believed to be a variation of the surname Tolber. The Tolman family originated in Lancashire, England and can trace its roots back to the Middle Ages.

Overall, the surname Tolber has a long and significant history and has many derivatives, spellings, and surnames of the same origin. It is believed to have originated in England and Scotland, and is found in records all over the world today.

Famous people with the name Tolber

• Assistant Commissioner Stephen Tolber: Stephen Tolber is a retired Assistant Commissioner of the New York City Police Department. He is well known for his successful 24-year career as the leader of the NYPD's Organized Crime Control Bureau.
• Allen Tolber: Allen Tolber is a lawyer and attorney with the J.A. Tolber & Associates Law Firm in Houston, Texas. He specializes in complex litigation and transactions involving tax laws, business negotiations, and executive compensation.
• Bryce Tolber: Bryce Tolber is an American rapper and singer. He is signed to Akon’s Konvict Music and is best known for his single “I See You”.
• Gerald J. Tolber: Gerald J. Tolber is an American film director and editor. He has edited and/or directed several notable films such as the hit comedy “Meet the Parents” (as editor) and the widely-acclaimed documentary “The Battle of Midway” (as director).
• Jeff Tolber: Jeff Tolber is a professional basketball player and the current president of the Austin Spurs, the D-League affiliate of the San Antonio Spurs. He was a professional basketball player and two-time NBA All-Star in the 1980s and 1990s.
• Lara Tolber: Lara Tolber is a well-known American artist and designer. Her work includes paintings, pottery, jewelry and clothing. Her colorful and abstract designs have been featured in various museums and galleries throughout the US.
• Marybeth Tolber: Marybeth Tolber is a longtime gospel singer best known for being a part of the Grammy Award-winning gospel trio God's Property. She was recently featured on the FOX tv show “Showtime at the Apollo” as a “Legends of Gospel.”

Other surnames

Tolbert