Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Galbrait

      Origin

      Scottish Surname

      Meaning

      Foreigners Servant or Stranger

      Variations

      Galbraith, Calbraith, Gallbraith
      The first name Galbraith has its origins in Scotland and is derived from a surname that translates to Foreigners' Servant or Stranger. This indicates a historical association with outsiders, possibly implying a role of service to those who did not belong to the local community. The name is often linked to complex cultural dynamics, reflecting the interactions between local Scottish clans and incoming populations or influences.

      Historically, the name Galbraith is rooted in medieval Scotland, where surnames often derived from geographical locations, occupations, or familial connections. The Clan Galbraith, established in the western part of Stirlingshire, played a significant role in local politics and conflicts. Members of the clan were known for their loyalty to Scottish monarchs and their participation in notable historical events. Over centuries, the name has evolved but retains its noble associations with clan heritage and Scottish identity.

      In contemporary society, Galbraith is both a recognizable surname and first name, largely associated with Scottish heritage. It is seen in various contexts, including notable public figures, authors, and academics. The name has maintained its stature, often evoking a sense of tradition and cultural pride within families. Today, it is frequently used in Scotland and among Scottish communities worldwide, symbolizing a connection to a rich historical legacy.

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA

      Explore the origins of another name.