Surname Harwell - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'H'
Experience Unveiled: An Excursion into the Origins and Connections of 'Harwell' with iGENEA DNA Test
Delve into an exploration of my experience with the iGENEA DNA test, an enlightening journey into the origins and connections of the surname 'Harwell' and how it fostered unique bonds and offered a comprehensive understanding of my ancestry.
G. Harwell
read moreHarwell: What does the surname Harwell mean?
The surname Harwell is of Anglo-Saxon origin, deriving from a geographic locale in England. It is believed that it originated from the old English terms, 'hoar', meaning grey or old, and 'wella', referring to a spring or stream. Thus, Harwell could be interpreted as 'grey spring' or 'old spring', possibly denoting a significant or notable spring in an aged or weathered landscape within an old village or town. Sometimes, "hoar" was used to refer to someone with gray hair, hence, the surname could also possibly refer to 'the spring or stream of the man with grey hair'. Like many other surnames originating from geographical locations, it would have been adopted by individuals or families residing in or near such a location. This surname is especially prevalent in the United Kingdom, reflecting its historical and cultural origins. Other versions of the name across different countries and languages may have slight variations in meaning based on linguistic interpretations and cultural contexts.
Order DNA origin analysisHarwell: Where does the name Harwell come from?
The surname Harwell is of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from a place name. It comes from two Old English words, "hoer" meaning "grey" and "well(a)" meaning "spring or stream". The spots that bear this name in Britain include Harwell in Berkshire and Harwell in Nottinghamshire.
The surname was first found in Lincolnshire, England where evidence suggests they held a family seat before the Norman conquest in 1066. Throughout the centuries, it has been adopted by many families in English-speaking countries as a result of migration, colonization, and marriage.
Today, the Harwell last name is common in the United States, particularly in the southern states. It has also maintained some prevalence in England. Some minor concentration of people with this surname can be found in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The expression of this surname may vary within different communities, but the lineage can be traced back to Britain.
Variations of the surname Harwell
The surname Harwell could have variants that include Harwill, Harville, Hurwell, Hartwell, Horwell, Herwell, and Harvelle. The origins of "Harwell" can be traced back to Anglo-Saxon and Irish-Scottish descent. It is a locational surname that originated from Harwell in Oxfordshire formerly known as 'Harewelle', suggesting a possible association with hares and a well or spring.
Another plausible spelling variant could be Harewell, which aligns with this etymological suggestion.
Over time, due to geographic relocations, migrations, or language transitions, more variations or similar surnames like Hartville, Horville, or Hervell could have emerged.
Another potential theory is the origin from the Celtic word "Arwela" meaning "on the slope", which could transition to Harwell.
In Irish surnames correlating to Harwell, we might find O'Hare as a potential variant given the hare animal connection. Also, O'Harra and O'Harrow linked to the "Arwela" Celtic root.
Remember, spellings and variants can also be influenced by phonetics, translating from different scripts, dialects, or through anglicization of names.
Famous people with the name Harwell
- Ernie Harwell: An American sportscaster, best known for his radio broadcasts of Major League Baseball's Detroit Tigers.
- Lee Harwell: An American professional basketball player.
- Dovey Johnson Roundtree and Richard Roundtree: Both are relatives of Ernie Harwell.
- Gavin Harwell, an American musician.
- John Harwell, a noted British actor.
- Reid Harwell, an American artist noted for his lithographs.
- Lem Barney: A relative of Ernie Harwell and a well-known former American football player.
- Rex Harwell's a noted American historian who has written on the American circus.
- Bonnie Harwell, a film producer.
- Roy Harwell, is an American politician who has served as a member of the North Carolina House of Representatives.
- E.J. Harwell, a noted Canadian ice hockey player.
- Joy Harwell, an American writer of children's books.
- Devala Harwell, an American activist for disabled veterans and their families.
- Glenn Harwell, a well-known former American football coach.
- Lloyd Harwell, a famous American football player and coach.