Shriver is a German occupational surname, closely related to the English surname Scriven. The name originates from the same Indo-European root as the English words "scribe" and "scrivener" and the German verb schreiben (to write). It thus denotes a person who writes or works as a clerk, a scribe. For variants in other languages, compare German Schreiber and English forms such as Scrivener, Scrivenor, and Scrivens. Notable Bearers The surname Shriver is particularly well‑known through the prominent American political and activist Shriver family. Notable members include: Eunice Kennedy Shriver (1921–2009), disability rights activist and founder of the Special Olympics Garner E. Shriver (1912–1998), U.S. Representative from Kansas Bobby Shriver (born 1954), politician and advocate Anthony Shriver (born 1965), founder of Best Buddies International Several early American politicians from Maryland, including David Shriver (1735–1826), Isaac Shriver, and Jacob Shriver.