The name Corbett is derived from the Old French word "corbeau," which means "raven" or "crow." It is believed to have originated as a surname in medieval France, likely referring to someone with dark hair or complexion resembling a raven. The name gained popularity across Europe during the Middle Ages.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Corbett can be found in the Domesday Book, a manuscript record of the great survey of England commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1086. The name appears in various spellings, such as Corbett, Corbet, and Corbit, suggesting its widespread use during the Norman conquest of England.

In the 12th century, a prominent figure named Corbett was Robert Corbet, a Norman nobleman who served as a baron and constable under King Henry II. He played a significant role in the English military campaigns in Wales and Ireland during the latter half of the 12th century.

Another notable individual with the name Corbett was Sir Vincent Corbett, an English soldier and Member of Parliament who lived during the 16th century. He served under Queen Elizabeth I and was knighted for his military service in the Netherlands during the Eighty Years' War against Spain.

In the realm of literature, one of the most famous figures with the name Corbett is Jim Corbett, an English hunter, naturalist, and author born in 1875. He is renowned for his books on man-eating tigers and his efforts in conserving the Bengal tiger population in the Indian subcontinent.

Another prominent individual with the name Corbett was Willard P. Corbett, an American lawyer and politician who served as a United States Senator from Oregon in the early 20th century. He was born in 1859 and played a significant role in shaping legislation related to public lands and natural resources during his tenure in the Senate.

While the name Corbett has its roots in medieval France, it has since spread across various cultures and regions, with individuals bearing this name making notable contributions in various fields throughout history.