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The surname Bird is English. It derives from the pre 7th century word bridde, meaning a bird, or nestling, and as a surname was originally given as a nickname to one thought to bear a fancied resemblance to a bird. This may have been from bright dress, or bright eyed and active, or perhaps to some one with a beautiful singing voice. It may also be derived from the Old English burde, meaning maiden or girl and used as a derisory nickname. The surname was first recorded towards the end of the 12th century.
Variations: Byrd, Byrde, Bride
Jewish- translation of various Ashkenazic surnames meaning bird, such as Vogel
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