Surname Craven - Meaning and Origin

Unearthing My Craven Roots: How a DNA Test Deepened My Understanding of Personal Identity and Heritage

The iGENEA DNA test took me on an enlightening journey, revealing an unexpected connection to the Craven surname, reshaping my perception of personal identity and heritage.

C. Craven

Craven: What does the surname Craven mean?

The surname Craven is of Old English and Old Norse origin, and it has several possible interpretations. One commonly accepted meaning is "garlic valley", derived from the Old Norse words "kraf" meaning garlic and "völlr" meaning a meadow or flat area. It is believed to be a locational surname given to someone who lived in a garlic-filled valley or to those originating from a place named Craven in North, West, and South Yorkshire, England.

Another possible meaning links the name Craven to the Old English word "Craefen", which means "garlicky place". Yet another interpretation suggests the name could mean "one who came from Craven" (the stony or rocky region), denoting the geographical characteristics of a person's homeland.

Despite its definition, it's worth noting that the term "craven" in modern English is used to describe someone who is very cowardly; however, there is no evidence of this meaning being connected to the surname's origin. Remember that many surnames from centuries ago refer to places, tasks, or occupations, rather than personal characteristics or behaviors.

Craven: Where does the name Craven come from?

The surname Craven dates back to early medieval England. It originated from the area known as Craven in the West Riding of Yorkshire. The term "Craven" is of pre 8th century Norse-Viking origins, from the Old Norse word "krefja," which translates to "garlic place", suggesting the area was known for its garlic farming.

The early recordings of this surname date back to the 12th century. Notably, one of the earliest was William de Cravene, registered in the Pipe Rolls of Yorkshire in 1170. The surname Craven may have initially been a geographical name for those who lived in that region.

Today, the Craven surname is common in England and the United States. In England, it is particularly prevalent in its place of origin, Yorkshire. It's also widespread in Lancashire and West Midlands. In the United States, states with a higher concentration of individuals with the Craven surname include North Carolina, South Carolina, and Pennsylvania. However, it is important to note that this surname can be found in many countries worldwide due to historical migration patterns.

Variations of the surname Craven

The surname Craven has primarily English roots, originating from a place name in North Yorkshire called "Craven". Variants of the surname can include Cravens, Cravin, Cravene, Cravenee, Cravenn, and Cravenns. Alternate spellings, due to phonetic translations or regional differences, may include Cravane, Cravene, Cravaine, and even Krayven.

As it is a geographical surname, it can also be derived independently in different locations, leading to slightly different versions. For example, in Ireland, the Gaelic Ó Crabháin became anglicized as Craven, but it also sometimes became Cribben or Creaven. There are also surnames like McRaven, which might be of the same origin but have an added Irish or Scottish prefix.

It's also worth noting that not everyone with the surname Craven will have the same ancestral roots, as surnames can also be adopted for reasons other than lineage such as residence, occupation or even to denote patronage. It contributes to the diversity of spellings and variants.

Finally, it's important to understand that with the passage of time, the dispersion of the name due to migration, and the natural evolution of language, spellings and variants continuously change and diversify.

Famous people with the name Craven

• Wes Craven: A renowned American filmmaker, actor, and writer, best known for his work in horror films like "A Nightmare on Elm Street" and "Scream."
• Matt Craven: A Canadian actor who has appeared in numerous films and television shows, including "X-Men: First Class," "Public Enemies," and "Crimson Tide."
• Margaret Craven: An American author known for her novel "I Heard the Owl Call My Name."
• Beverley Craven: A British singer-songwriter known for her 1991 UK Top 5 hit single "Promise Me."
• Charles Craven: Late American politician who served as the mayor of Philadelphia from 1920 to 1924.
• Charlie Craven: A well-known American fishing and fly tying instructor.
• John Craven: A British journalist and presenter, best known for his work on the BBC programs "Newsround" and "Countryfile."
• Amanda Craven: An actress known for her roles in films like "The Dark Side of the Moon" and "The Stepfather."
• Thomas Craven: An early 20th-century American art critic and historian, focused on contemporary American art.
• Phil Craven: A British former wheelchair basketball player and retired sports administrator, who served as the President of the International Paralympic Committee from 2001 to 2017.

Other surnames

CravensCraver