Stuart

Stuart is an English and Scottish surname-turned-given name derived from the Old English occupational term stigweard, meaning "house guardian" or "steward," referring to one who managed a household or estate. The name gained immense prestige through the Royal House of Stuart, the Scottish and later English and British royal dynasty that produced monarchs including Mary Queen of Scots and King James VI and I. The spelling Stuart became favored in France and among Scottish Catholics following Mary Queen of Scots' time at the French court, distinguishing it from the older spelling Stewart. Both Stuart and Stewart continue in use as given names throughout the English-speaking world.