Musgrave (surname)

Musgrave is a surname of English origin. It is a locational name derived from places so named in Cumberland (now Cumbria) and Westmorland (now also part of Cumbria), England. These places are thought to be named from the Old English "musa," meaning "mouse," and "graf," meaning "grove" or "copse," thus translating roughly to "mouse grove."

The surname is relatively common in northern England, reflecting its origins in that region. Over time, the surname has spread to other parts of the world, particularly to countries with significant English-speaking populations due to emigration and colonization.

Notable people with the surname Musgrave include:

• Story Musgrave (b. 1935): American physician and retired NASA astronaut.

• George Musgrave (disambiguation): Several people with this name.

The surname Musgrave is associated with various branches of the Musgrave family, some of whom have historically held positions of importance in English society. Heraldic crests and coats of arms are associated with the Musgrave name, reflecting its historical presence and standing in the areas where the family was prominent.