An English, Irish and Dutch surname, the Best name came from the Latin term ‘bestia’ and the Old English term ‘beste’ which meant a beast and a cattle herder. The spelling variations for Best include Bestar, Beste, and Bester. In England the Best family name started in the Kent region. From there the Best families settled all along the southern English coast. They also went to the north into Yorkshire, Lancashire, Durham and Northumberland. In Scotland the Best families cover most of the country. Most are settled in Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, Lanarkshire and Midlothian. Within the United States the Best families originated in Illinois, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Ohio, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey and Georgia. Famous: Neil best (professional Irish rugby player), Jacob Best (19th century founder of Pabst Brewing Company in Milwaukee), Pete Best (English drummer musician, one of the original Beatles), Travis best (professional basketball player), Peter Best (Australian music movie film composer), John Best (professional soccer player) and George Best (Irish footballer).