Surname · English origin
Brown
Meaning
The surname Brown means Brown-haired or -complexioned.
Origin
English
Type
descriptive
Variants
1
The origin of the surname Brown
Brown described a person with brown hair or a brown complexion.
What kind of surname is Brown?
Brown is a descriptive surname, originally describing a physical or personal characteristic. It belongs to the English naming tradition — you can read how English surnames were formed on our English last names page.
Variants & spellings of Brown
You may also see this surname written as:
- Browne
Other English surnames
Other descriptive surnames
Family names formed the same way, from different cultures.
Frequently asked questions
What does the surname Brown mean?
The surname Brown means Brown-haired or -complexioned. Brown described a person with brown hair or a brown complexion.
Where does the surname Brown come from?
Brown is a surname of English origin.
What kind of surname is Brown?
Brown is a descriptive surname, originally describing a physical or personal characteristic.
What are other spellings of Brown?
Variant spellings of Brown include Browne.
What are other English surnames?
Other English surnames include Bailey, Baker, Chapman, Clarke, Cook, Cooper.