This interesting name recorded in the spellings of Treby, Treeby, Tribey, Trobey, Truby, Trubey, and possibly other spellings, is English, and a nickname of affection and possibly status. It derives from the medieval expression "true body", and means " faithful friend" or in some cases "honest servant". As an example of the latter meaning, it is recorded that in the year 1291, the Countess of Leicester had in service a number of staff members, all bearing surnames alluding to their office. These included Slingaway, who was responsible for the defense of the castle, Bolett, a fast messenger, and Treubodie, who managed the household accounts, and who did so honestly. Perhaps there were many who didnt! What is certain is that the name had some popularity nationwide because later recordings of the hereditary surname taken from authentic charters and registers of the period, include Annes Truboddy, of St Columb Major, Cornwall, in 1630, and George Trebye, recorded at St Brides church, Fleet Street, London, on October 25th 1676. On October 9th 1698, his son, also called George, was recorded at St Andrews church, Holborn. However by that time a change had come over the spelling, this George being recorded as Treby, perhaps the first in the line with this new spelling. The earliest recorded spelling of the family name is believed to be that of Stephen Trewebodi, dated 1277, in the Assize Rolls of Somerset, during the reign of King Edward 1st, known as "The Hammer of the Scots",1273 - 1307.

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