coomb

Coombs is a surname of English origin. It is thought to derive from the word "cump," meaning a hollow or valley, suggesting a geographical origin for the earliest bearers of the name. Alternatively, it may be an occupational surname, referring to someone who worked with coombs, a type of comb used in textile production. The name is found in various spellings throughout history, including Combe, Combs, and Coumb.

The Coombs surname is present in various countries, with a significant presence in the United Kingdom and the United States. Historical records indicate its existence from at least the medieval period. Like many surnames, it has spread through migration and settlement over centuries. Individuals bearing the Coombs name have contributed to diverse fields, including science, arts, and public service. The etymological roots of the name point to a connection with the landscape or specific trades prevalent in medieval England.