William Colburn
19th-century American missionary known for his work in Hawaii spreading Christianity and education.
IPA Pronunciation
/ˈkoʊl.bɜrn/
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Syllables
Colburn originates from Old English elements 'col' meaning 'coal' or 'dark' and 'burna' meaning 'stream' or 'hill.' Historically, it referred to someone living near a dark, coal-rich hill or area. The name evokes strength, earthiness, and resilience, with roots tied to medieval English topography and occupations related to coal mining or hillside settlements.
Cultural Significance of Colburn
Colburn has roots in English heritage, commonly used as a surname before becoming a given name. It reflects the medieval English reliance on nature and geography for identity, connected to coal mining regions and rural landscapes. The name carries a sense of groundedness and history, symbolizing endurance and connection to the land, often appearing in regional histories and genealogies in Northern England.
Colburn Name Popularity in 2025
Today, Colburn is an uncommon but distinctive unisex name, appreciated for its vintage charm and strong, nature-based meaning. It appeals to parents seeking unique yet classic names with a sturdy, grounded feel. The name’s rarity keeps it fresh and original, often chosen by families valuing heritage, nature, and historical depth in baby names.
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International Variations10
ColbernColburneColbournColborneKolburnKolbernKolbournKolborneColbornColberne
Name Energy & Essence
The name Colburn carries the essence of “Coal hill or dark fortress” from Old English tradition. Names beginning with "C" often embody qualities of creativity, communication, and charm.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
Colburn has roots in English heritage, commonly used as a surname before becoming a given name. It reflects the medieval English reliance on nature and geography for identity, connected to coal mining regions and rural landscapes. The name carries a sense of groundedness and history, symbolizing endurance and connection to the land, often appearing in regional histories and genealogies in Northern England.
William Samuel Colburn
U.S. Congressman from New Jersey who served in the mid-19th century and was influential in local politics.
Laban Colburn
Early settler and notable figure in the establishment of towns in New England during colonial times.
Charles Colburn
Photographer
James Colburn
Author
Evelyn Colburn
Composer
Mystery Hill ()
The Dark Stream ()
Coal Town Chronicles ()
Hilltop Shadows ()
The Forge ()
Northern Lights ()
Echoes of the Past ()
Silent Waters ()
Colburn
🌐Spanish
Colburn
🌐French
Colburn
🌐German
Colburn
🌐Italian
コールバーン
🌐Japanese
科尔本
🌐Chinese
كولبورن
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Colburn
The name Colburn was originally a surname used to identify families living near coal-rich hillsides, making it a rare geographic-based given name today.
Personality Traits for Colburn
People named Colburn are often seen as dependable, resilient, and thoughtful. They tend to have a strong connection to their roots and exhibit a quiet strength. Creative and grounded, they balance ambition with humility. Colburns are perceived as loyal friends with a calm presence, often drawn to nature and tradition while embracing modern individuality.
What does the name Colburn mean?
Colburn is a Old English name meaning “Coal hill or dark fortress”. Colburn originates from Old English elements 'col' meaning 'coal' or 'dark' and 'burna' meaning 'stream' or 'hill.' Historically, it referred to someone living near a dark, coal-rich hill or area. The name evokes strength, earthiness, and resilience, with roots tied to medieval English topography and occupations related to coal mining or hillside settlements.
How do you pronounce Colburn?
Colburn is pronounced (IPA: /ˈkoʊl.bɜrn/). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Colburn?
Popular nicknames for Colburn include: Col, Burn, Coley, Coby, Burnie, CB, Colby, Burna, Colbo, Colb, C-Burn, Colbs.
Who are famous people named Colburn?
Famous people named Colburn include: , , , Charles Colburn, James Colburn.