Nairn (surname)

The surname Nairn is a Scottish surname of territorial origin, derived from the town of Nairn (also known as Invernairn) in the Highland council area of Scotland. The town itself likely takes its name from the River Nairn, which flows through it.

As a surname, Nairn is found predominantly in Scotland and, to a lesser extent, in other English-speaking countries like England, Canada, Australia, and the United States due to migration.

Variants of the surname, though less common, may include Nairne.

People with the surname Nairn are historically associated with the Clan Nairn, though the clan is now considered an armigerous clan, meaning it lacks a recognized chief.

The surname can be traced in historical records, including land ownership documents, census records, and parish registers, providing evidence of its presence in Scotland for several centuries.